Billie J. Farrell, first woman to command the 224-year-old warship USS Constitution, takes over this week

History is being made aboard the U.S.S. Constitution this week.

Commander Billie J. Farrell is scheduled to become the first woman to lead the crew of the 224-year-old warship known as Old Ironsides during a change-of-command ceremony on Friday. She takes over from Commander John Benda, who has led the ship's crew since February 2020.

"I know the crew is in great hands with Commander Farrell," Benda said in a statement. "This historic barrier is long overdue to be broken. I cannot think of a better candidate to serve as USS Constitution's first female commanding officer."