#OTD in Naval History! On this day, an American squadron led by Captain Thomas Truxtun arrived at St. Kitts in the Lesser Antilles, establishing the U.S. Navy’s primary base of operations in the Caribbean during the Quasi-War with France. USS Constitution played a key role in this conflict, patrolling the West Indies to protect American merchant ships from French privateers. She symbolized the strength and resilience of the young U.S. Navy, ensuring safe passage for American commerce in turbulent seas. 📸: Naval History and Heritage Command. (n.d.). Action between U.S. frigate Constellation and French frigate L’Insurgente during the Quasi-War with France, 9 February 1799 [Painting by Rear Admiral John W. Schmidt, USN (Ret.), Navy Art collection, KN-2882]. #OldIronsides #NavalHistory #QuasiWar #USNavy