ABILENE, Texas (AP) - A West Texas park dedicated to Dyess Air Force Base personnel who died in crashes or other service to their country has been expanded to include memorial plaques.

Ceremonies were held Friday in Abilene at updated Dyess Memorial Park, which was a project of the Abilene Chamber of Commerce Military Affairs Committee.

The site previously featured a flagpole, a covered area and bricks. The expanded park now recognizes the 79 military personnel who've given their lives since what originally was known as Abilene Air Force Base opened in 1956.

The design involves a sundial memorial , allowing the sun to enter and mark precise points on the grounds and shine on various monuments.

Gen. Maryanne Miller, commander of the Air Force Mobility Command, said Friday was about sacrifices and thanksgiving.

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