Local sailors are doing their part to ensure the Navy community never forgets the victims of 9/11.

Service members assigned to Transient Personnel Unit Puget Sound participated in a beautification project at Naval Base Kitsap-Bangor’s 9/11 Memorial Park Sept. 8.

The 9/11 Memorial Park was dedicated to the base on Nov. 10, 2005. The park displays silver plaques with a list of those who lost their lives during the attacks.

“It’s important to keep this park looking beautiful because it represents what America has been through,” said Chief Air Traffic Controller (AW/SW) Christopher L. Switzer, legal department head TPU Puget Sound. “Everyone who visits this park can take a minute to reflect and pay tribute to those who lost their lives.”

Service members cleared out overgrown weeds and garden mulch. Sailors also picked up trash and repainted the gazebo, which shelters a sculpture designed by Joe Powers.

The monument displayed is a bronze metal statue of an eagle perched on a tree branch with a flag prominently displayed. The sculpture represents America’s strength and fairness, according to Powers. The name of his piece is titled, “With Liberty and Justice for All.”

“This park is a symbol and a tribute to those who lost their lives,” said Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Handling) 2nd Class Brad Jenson, TPU volunteer coordinator. “Each week, sailors assigned to TPU come here to keep the park looking good for visitors, and the park is a reminder for all of us to remember 9/11.”

For Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Equipment) 3rd Class Benny Estep, the park is a meaningful reminder to everyone.

“This park means a lot especially because it is located on a military base and it’s important to take care of this monument,” he said. “I will never forget that day and it’s a place to reflect on our past.”