In a move that solidifies the memory of a fallen officer, North Clairemont Community Park is slated for a rechristening. The San Diego Parks and Recreation Board has given a green light to Mayor Todd Gloria's proposal to rename the space Officer Austin Machitar Memorial Park, in honor of the San Diego Police Officer who was killed in the line of duty last year.
Officer Machitar's sacrifice was at the forefront of the initiative, according to a statement from Mayor Gloria, per the City of San Diego, "I promised Officer Machitar’s family that I would never let our city forget the sacrifice he made in service to our community." The dedication isn't only a symbolic gesture, but a nod to Machitar's five years of service, particularly in that very neighborhood where the park sits at 4421 Bannock Avenue. Machitar also took on the responsible role of field training officer, leading recruits before his untimely death.
Support for the name change poured in from various corners of the community, including the Clairmont Community Planning Group and the Clairmont Town Council. This indicates a broad recognition of Officer Machitar's impact on the neighborhood he patrolled. The Greater North Clairemont Community Recreation Group, Councilmember Jennifer Campbell, and the San Diego Police Officers Association also backed the decision.
The San Diego Police Officers Association played more than a ceremonial role in the proceedings. "We thank the Mayor and all the community partners who have helped ensure we have a permanent memorial that honors the commitment, generosity and dedication his time on the force represents," said POA President Jared Wilson, as he expressed the organization's intentions to contribute financially to the new signage and updates planned for the park. These modifications are slated for completion over the summer, as cited by the City of San Diego.
