Community Corner
Sean Diamond Park Opens in Dublin, California
Grand Opening of Dublin Park named in honor of fallen soldier U.S. Army Staff Sergeant Sean Diamond
The City of Dublin, California celebrated the grand opening of Sean Diamond Park on Saturday, April 28. The park is named in honor of the life and service of Staff Sergeant Sean Diamond, a Dublin resident who was killed by a roadside bomb in Iraq in 2009.
Members of his family, including his daughter Madison and his Mom Sally Wiley were on hand to cut the ceremonial ribbon along with City council members and commissioners. There was an emotional and heartbreaking moment as tears were shed following the ribbon cutting.
Other family members present for the ceremony included Michael Wiley (step-father), Jason Diamond (brother), Bryce Diamond (nephew) and cousins Justin Seteth and Margy Catlin.
Find out what's happening in Dublinfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
This park was the 20th to be opened in Dublin and is located at 4801 La Strada Drive.
The community gathered to observe the ribbon cutting ceremony and enjoy the light refreshments and children's activities. The event was free and open to the public and the complimentary ice cream stand proved to be very popular.
Find out what's happening in Dublinfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
A toy airplane building activity station was also included as flying was a favorite pastime of Sean's.
City Officials announced that Public Artwork would be added to the park in due course.
Fellow soldier and close friend of Sean Diamond's, Platoon Sergeant Lee Ferreira, delivered a few words in remembrance of Sean. He described Sean as "a great soldier, father and husband and a beautiful friend" and said that he was proud and honored to know him. The pair were affectionately known as "Shoes and Socks". He also said that Sean was a reliable and quiet person who did what was required of him although once in a while their Commander, Lt. Col. Joseph Dermenjian (who was also present at the event), had to keep them out of trouble.
Lee said that naming the park after Sean was the best way to honor his memory as he raised his family in Dublin and loved being a Dad. This is a place that brings the community together and where families can build bonds.
This is the first park in Dublin to include a zip-line and there were plenty of children lining up to give it a try.
Jean Josey, local community member commented on Twitter that "This was a beautiful event and is a beautiful park. If you haven't been there, get there. Playground is awesome."
Additional images of the opening event can be found on Google Bulletin.
