Dartmouth park renamed after slain Afghanistan vet

Montebello Park in Dartmouth is being renamed after a slain Canadian soldier.

In 2010 Petty Officer 2nd Class Craig Blake, 37, was killed while working in the Panjwai district, approximately 25 kilometres southwest of Kandahar city in Afghanistan.

He left behind a wife and two sons. This week they succeeded in their quest to have this park named in his honour.

"It feels really nice. It feels good. It's amazing how much support we've got from our community. We're fully aware of how lucky we are to live in this community and this neighborhood and have so much support from our friends and neighbours," said Prisicilla Blake.

Tie Blake, 9, came up with the idea at school. He told his mom who mentioned it to Coun. Darren Fisher.

"I think it's hugely important to certainly remember this man and show respect in this way. I think this is something that will do that. It'll be a lasting memory and a lasting legacy for this family," he said.

So far 158 Canadian soldiers have died in Afghanistan. Blake died on his first tour just days after being deployed.

"It's kind of special that way everyone can see how big of an impact he had on the community I guess and now he gets this. He deserves it," said son Kain.

His family said Blake was an athlete who used the park often.

"To be places that we were and have memories of Craig. It's special," said his wife.

The design of the sign bearing Blake’s name is still in the planning stages.