Dozens of 10th Mountain Division (LI) Soldiers and family members joined Friends of Thompson Park volunteers for a trail cleanup effort April 23 at Thompson Park in Watertown. (Photos by Lt. Col. Kevin Smith and Mike Strasser)
Fort Drum Soldiers, family members join volunteers in Thompson Park cleanup effort
Mike Strasser
Fort Drum Garrison Public Affairs
“It’s a beautiful day, and Soldiers are happy to get outside and lend a hand,” said Lt. Col. Kevin Smith, 10th Mountain Division (LI) G9. “This is just about being good neighbors and supporting the local community when we can.”
Volunteers spent the morning clearing debris from the trails and removing piles of brush and dead foliage from portions of the park. One Soldier said that he lives near the park with his wife, and they often take walks on the trails and play Frisbee. He said this was a good opportunity to give back.
Scott Weller, City of Watertown Parks and Recreation superintendent, said that this was the first Trail Work Day of the season, and he was appreciative of the support from all the volunteers.
“We started volunteer days a few years ago, and it has continued to grow,” he said. “It’s great to have everybody out here from the community and Fort Drum, and we’re grateful for their help.”