SOUTH, BEND, Ind.-A former South Bend Mayor and Governor of Indiana will be honored by the city this afternoon.

Mayor Pete Buttigieg will be joined by Park Board President Mark Neal and South Bend Venues, Parks and Arts Director Aaron Perri, to formally rename Viewing Park to Governor Joe Kernan Park.

The name change honors Kernan’s achievements and dedicated service.

He served in the United States Navy, earning two Purple Hearts and the Navy Commendation Medal.

Kernan was Mayor of South Bend for 9 years. He served as the Hoosier state’s Lieutenant Governor and Governor.

Mayor Buttigieg says “Joe Kernan has served our city, state and country with extraordinary distinction. He is among the most courageous, energetic and decent individuals our city has produced.”

Governor Kernan will attend the 3 P.M. Ceremony. It’s taking place at Viewing Park, Northside Boulevard at Notre Dame Avenue.