[TimT]

These weren't just "oaks" - they were planted between larch and spruce so that they would grow tall and straight, which means the navy oak forests are rather unusual.

The US Navy has done the same to assure a supply of white oak for future restorations of the USS Constitution..




Since 1797, when USS Constitution was launched, “the best white oak” (as stated by Secretary of War Knox) of sufficient size and clarity has been a paramount concern for the survival of the ship. With each 20th century restoration, obtaining solid wood hull planks and ships’ knees has become increasingly challenging.

Nearly two generations and three restorations ago, white oak trees at the Naval Facilities Engineering Command (NAVFAC), in Crane, IN, were designated for USS Constitution. At the time, as the 1973 work on the ship began, the U.S. Navy noted: “Seasoned white oak,…needed in the…overhaul of…CONSTITUTION, was difficult to…procure.” Capt. Vernon P. Klemm, USN, suggested that the Navy grow its own white oak for Constitution. On May 8, 1976, CDR Tyrone G. Martin, Constitution’s commanding officer, and H. Robert Freneau, Secretary of the Navy Special Assistant, dedicated the ceremonial “Constitution Grove” at Naval Support Activity (NSA) Crane, Indiana. One hundred and fifty white oak trees spread over the 64,000-acre base were designated for Constitution.