USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) Sailors decorated downtown Bremerton with holiday lights during a community service event, Nov. 12.

Sailors were up early to spend their Saturday morning hanging holiday lights throughout the downtown district along Pacific Avenue and 4th Street.

"I just think it's really great that they take the time out of their long weekend to come volunteer to help downtown Bremerton," said Elizabeth Leonhardt, one of the civilian organizers for the event. "It's also important for the community to not forget the Sailors that are a part of the community."

Since 2014, John C. Stennis Sailors have volunteered their time to give back to their community and help spread holiday cheer by setting up and taking down lights. The lights signify the beginning of the holiday season in the Bremerton community.

"During the holiday period, everyone is running around stressed out, and seeing something beautiful like lights downtown is something that can make somebody smile and relieve a little bit of their stress," said Petty Officer 1st Class Terrence Goodale, from DeBary, Florida.

Goodale said he plans to participate in the event every year he lives in Bremerton. Community service events, such as the holiday decorations, serve as a productive and healthy way for Sailors to spend their time off work and as a part of the local community.

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