South African sailor contributes to USS Constitution's legacy during US Independence celebrations

As the United States celebrates 249 years of independence, Hospitalman Rose Mugova from Cape Town, South Africa, stands among the more than 60 sailors serving aboard USS Constitution, the Navy’s oldest commissioned warship.

Mugova, who graduated from Phoenix High School in Phoenix, Oregon, in 2023, credits her upbringing in South Africa for instilling the values that have guided them in the Navy.

“My mother taught me a good work ethic and resiliency with good morals and values, which has helped guide me both professionally and personally,” said Mugova.

Mugova joined the Navy two years ago, a decision that took shape after attending a job fair.

“There were a lot of signs pointing to me joining the military,” Mugova explained.

“I decided it wouldn’t do any harm to choose this career path. I went to a job fair, and a lot of branches from the Armed Forces were present, but not the Navy. I chose the Navy over the other branches because the Marines didn’t call me back when I was interested. I’m glad I decided to join the Navy now.”

Launched in 1797 from a Boston shipyard, USS Constitution is the only surviving vessel of the Navy’s original six frigates and is the world’s oldest commissioned warship afloat.

Nicknamed “Old Ironsides” after British cannonballs were seen bouncing off her sturdy hull during the War of 1812, Constitution remains undefeated in battle, with a record of capturing or destroying 33 enemy vessels in nearly six decades of active service.

Today, 227 years after her launch, the Constitution’s mission focuses on education and outreach, welcoming over 500,000 visitors each year. Its dedicated crew preserves the ship’s legacy, promotes naval history, and fosters an understanding of maritime heritage.

According to Navy officials, America is a maritime nation and for 250 years, America’s Warfighting Navy has sailed the globe in defense of freedom.

For Mugova, serving aboard such a historic vessel offers a chance to inspire others and achieve personal milestones.

“My proudest accomplishment is having the opportunity to continue my education in pursuing a degree in health science,” Mugova said.

Service also carries deep personal meaning.

“Serving in the Navy makes my mother proud, and it gives my siblings an example to look up to,” Mugova shared.

“I would like to thank my mother, Concilia, and my siblings for all their love and support.”

Looking to the future, Mugova is eager to build on these experiences.

“I’m looking forward to having a successful naval career and afterwards, traveling and seeing the world,” Mugova said.

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