More than 40 Sailors and Marines from the amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) teamed up with city council workers and local volunteers to help beautify Likas Bay Public Park, Feb. 24 during the ship's scheduled port visit to Kota Kinabalu.

"Caring for the beautiful beaches of Malaysia sends a real Navy message," said Yeoman 3rd Class Justin Quinones, from Phillipsburg, New Jersey. "The best way to lead is by example. If we show we care, maybe it will be followed by others."

The event, organized by BHR and the local city council, focused on establishing relationships with the local community and to be an example for the city's residents.

"We hope this helps our citizens take pride in what is ours," said Jennifer Vun, a city tour guide and event coordinator. "Malaysia has some of the most spectacular beaches and seeing the American Sailors and Marines care means so much to us."

"Kota Kinabalu is a beautiful city and one of the best liberty ports for 7th Fleet Sailors and Marines," said Cmdr. Curtis N. Price, Expeditionary Strike Group 7 chaplain. "This project builds on our commitment to our friends, and gives our crew the opportunity to see this great country firsthand."

Bonhomme Richard is the flagship of the Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group and, with the embarked 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, is currently deployed in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations.

Bonhomme Richard ARG is currently under the tactical command of embarked Commander, Amphibious Squadron 11, Capt. Heidi Agle and reports to Commander, Amphibious Force U.S. 7th Fleet, Rear Adm. Hugh D. Wetherald, headquartered in White Beach, Japan.