In New Orleans, the waterfront buzzed with the sounds of ship horns and ceremonial salutes recently. The city welcomed Sail 250, a nationwide celebration of America’s 250th anniversary. This event featured tall ships and military vessels from around the globe docked along the Mississippi River, offering the public unique access to these rarely seen ships.

Aboard the USCGC Eagle

The USCGC Eagle, often called “America’s Tall Ship,” stands out among the vessels. As a 295-foot training vessel, it is the only active square-rigger in the U.S. government. Stepping onto the Eagle feels like entering a historical era. With 23 sails, six miles of rigging, and around 150 Coast Guard trainees, ship life mirrors old-fashioned methods. Cadets climb masts, manage rigging by hand, and train high above the deck to learn seamanship essentials.

Below deck, a historical artifact remains—a newspaper printing of the Declaration of Independence. According to Seth Kaller, a historical document expert, “The newspaper broadside was the cutting-edge technology of 1776. People first encountered the Declaration of Independence through such printings.”

Training Future Leaders

The Eagle serves as a training ground for future Coast Guard officers, focusing on leadership, teamwork, and technical skills. Captain Christopher Ensley explained, “Since 1946, this ship has prepared future officers for service at sea, cultivating their leadership and technical abilities such as seamanship and navigation.”

Training on the Eagle leads to service on modern vessels like the USCGC Mohawk. The Mohawk handles missions varying from migrant interdictions to drug enforcement.

“We have two small boats on board that are vital for our daily missions,” noted Ensign Riley Thorburn from the Mohawk.

Exploring Modern Military Life

Sail 250 also highlights modern military life at sea. The USS Kearsarge, an amphibious assault ship, accommodates nearly 3,000 sailors and Marines during deployments. Onboard, it resembles a bustling city with pilots, cooks, doctors, and firefighters all playing vital roles.

During a firefighting demonstration, Damage Controlman Allison Anutta remarked, “Every sailor is somewhat a firefighter.” The Kearsarge’s firefighting abilities support a broad mission spectrum, ranging from humanitarian aid to combat readiness. It can carry up to eight F-35 aircraft depending on mission needs.

The ship also hosts a 39-person Fleet Surgical Team to treat patients on the ocean. “We mirror the American population,” said Cmdr. Timothy Brooks. “We handle all health issues seen in America here, playing our part in maintaining overall good health.”

Crew members expressed pride in their multi-purpose roles. Naval Air Crewman Bryan Morch explained, “We rescue, protect, and deliver worldwide at a moment’s notice.”

Ceremonial Salutes and Legacy

The New Orleans event included significant ceremonial elements like a 21-gun salute and resounding ship horns along the Mississippi, marking the start of the celebration. Marines aboard reflected on their service and sacrifice, quoting, “Greater love has no man than he who lays his life down for a friend,” from U.S. Marine Grace Shneider.

The approach of America’s 250th anniversary holds special meaning for the crew who view their work as contributing to a legacy of service. Cmdr. Brooks commented, “Those who serve the country appreciate the great historical feats that came before them.”

Sail 250 will continue its journey up the East Coast, visiting Norfolk, Baltimore, New York, and Boston, with celebrations extending across the nation.