HAVERHILL, Mass. — A local woman is the first female service member in the country to have a bridge dedicated in her name.
In Haverhill, a bridge will now carry Caitlin Trask's name in honor of the late Navy petty officer who was killed by her former boyfriend in 2009.
The petty officer 3rd class was just 20-years-old when she was killed by her former boyfriend at a military housing complex in Virginia back in 2009.
Her father, Don Trask, said his daughter was so passionate about joining the Navy that she deferred attending college.
Caitlin's family, now a gold star family, was supported by other gold star families, friends and dignitaries.
"Caitlin was inspired by the events of 9/11 to do something to make our country safe from terrorists," said Don.
The bridge will span the route 125 connector in Haverhill, and the sign will bear her name.
"A way to say 'thank you' to the Trasks, thank you to Caitlin and to never forget - God bless you all," said Governor Charlie Baker. "There is nothing any of us can do to ever repair the loss of your loved one."
Caitlin's mother said she misses her daughter everyday, and is happy her daughter was honored and will be remembered. She said Caitlin's birthday would've been on Monday.
"Happy birthday in heaven Caity! We love you and miss you and we hope you like your bridge," said Mary Trask.
Caitlin's former boyfriend was eventually charged with manslaughter and received a 10-year sentence - the longest possible for that charge.