Sailors from USS Mustin (DDG 89) and USS Olympia (SSN 717) worked with residents on Saipan Feb. 23 to restore a historic landmark on this Pacific island.

The project, intended to improve the lives of Saipan residents while also fostering greater understanding between the local population and the Navy, was completed during both ships’ routine port visit to Saipan as part of their six-month deployment with the USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) Strike Group.

More than 40 volunteers from both ships volunteered to help local residents clear away jungle overgrowth that had overrun the park at the historic Sugar King Estate. The vegetation had become so thick in recent years that the park was nearly impassable to pedestrians. After a long day of work, Sailors cleared trails and the landscape was returned to its former beauty.

In appreciation for their efforts, the volunteers were treated to a delicious island barbeque prepared by the local residents.  The mayor of Saipan, Juan B. Tudela, showed his gratitude by offering letters of appreciation to the commanding officers of Mustin and Olympia. Both skippers presented the mayor with plaques.

Cmdr. Michael J. Ford, commanding officer of Mustin, was especially pleased with the outcome of the event.

“Our Sailors love to participate in community relations projects,” he said. “This was an opportunity for us to give back to the citizens of Saipan, who have been very supportive during our visit.”

The Mustin crew also hailed the operation as a tremendous success.

“We had a lot of fun helping out,” said HM2(SW) Rachael Bradley.  “I can’t wait to come back.”

Although the Sailors who participated in the project were tired at the end of the day, they all agreed that it was worth it. When asked what she thought of volunteering her time in a liberty port, SK1(SW) Lynn Quintanilla replied, “It is very powerful! It is like seeing the past unfold in front of your eyes while we create the future.”