Naval Base San Diego Holds Main Street Cleanup

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW/AW) Justin L. Webb, Naval Base San Diego Public Affairs

SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- More than 200 service members, family members, retirees, civilian employees and local community members were on hand for the Naval Base San Diego (NBSD) Main Street Cleanup May 19.

NBSD Commanding Officer Capt. Winton Smith and National City Mayor Mr. Ron Morrison spoke prior to starting the semi-annual event where local military members and civilians worked together to enhance the appearance of the NBSD surrounding community.

"We see the activity in the bay and we get to see on TV the actions you [Sailors] do throughout the world, but a lot of times we don't get to see what you're doing here this morning and the things that are done within the community," said Morrison. "For everything that you do if it's your duty on base, on your ship or around the world; from the people of National City and the residents of the United States I want to say...thank you!"

During the cleanup event, civilians and volunteers from naval units around the San Diego-area collected more than 3,400 pounds of trash in the neighboring community.

"I think it's a great opportunity for our Sailors and local community members to come together and make a positive impact on our environment as far as safety and cleanliness around our base because this is not only where we work but where we live," said Seaman Kiara Lopez.

More than seven weeks of planning went into coordinating the cleanup, which base leadership hopes continue having every six months.

"The turnout today was great," said event coordinator Operations Specialist 1st Class Nestor Martinez. "In fact, it was better than expected. We are very pleased and look forward to more involvement in the future."

Naval Base San Diego provides comprehensive fleet support for 59 home-ported ships and 180 tenant commands, and stands to gain an additional eight ships by 2014.