Monday, November 9, 2009

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Charlestown residents 'up in arms' over gunfire

CHARLESTOWN, Mass. -- Some Charlestown residents are up in arms over twice daily gunfire from the USS Constitution.

A couple living in the Nautica condo complex across the street from the Constitution wrote a letter to the ship's commanding officer complaining of excessive noise coming from cannons being blasted and the national anthem being played as officers raise the American flag in the morning and lower it in the evening.

The ritual that has taken place for centuries was restarted in 1975.

"It's the USS Constitution, that's what we're about, preserving the heritage and history of our Navy," said Commander Timothy Cooper, Commanding Officer of the USS Constitution.

Many neighbors said that's what they signed up for when they moved onto the freedom trail.

"I think the people that are making this argument just have no idea what patriotism is all about, what the Navy is all about, what the service is all about," said Paul Sullivan, who lives in the Navy Yard.

Commander Cooper said the Navy is looking into cutting some of the noise, but as for eliminating some salutes, that will likely not happen.

"The Constitution is as unique to Boston as the Red Sox and Cheers are. I think that's very true," Cooper said.

The Navy is looking into using less gunpowder and by the end of the year the ship is expected to be turned around so the cannons are shooting out toward the water instead of the condos.

Offended neighbors are invited to the elected boards Dec. 1 meeting where they can voice any concerns they have.

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