NSSF Sailor Reenlists on the Grounds Near the Statue of Liberty

LIBERTY ISLAND, NY (NNS) -- A Sailor assigned to Naval Submarine Support Facility (NSSF) coordinated his reenlistment at a location he soon would never forget, on the grounds near the Statue of Liberty.

Machinist's Mate 2nd Class (SS) Reinhard Sponseller, assigned to NSSF, which is located at Naval Submarine Base New London in Groton, reenlisted Aug. 31 at the flag pole near the "Statue of Liberty Enlightening the World."

Given the symbolism of the Statue of Liberty, Sponseller reflected on the meaning of reenlisting in a historic location where nearly 12 million immigrants had passed through Ellis Island in their quest for freedom.

"The Statue of Liberty symbolizes the United States, and for me, what better location to reenlist into the U.S. Navy," said Sponseller, who was joined by fellow Sailors he works with at NSSF, when he officially reenlisted for another three years of service.

Lt. Chad Collins, also assigned to NSSF, served as Sponseller's reenlistment officer. Collins, who has participated in nearly a dozen reenlistments in his naval career said reenlisting Sponseller near the Statue of the Liberty was a first for him.

"This is a great opportunity for the Sailor to be part of American history by encompassing it into his reenlistment," said Collins.

The Statue of Liberty, which is closed for public tours, is located on a 12-acre island and is a universal symbol of freedom and democracy, according to the National Park Service's website.