Mayor Brandon Johnson's office announced Friday it had "initiated a coordinated effort" to preserve the memorial honoring the 16 U.S. service members in the 2nd Battalion 24th Marine Regiment who died during the Iraq War. The mayor's office said the city is also "exploring potential new sites, such as the Lakefront and the Riverwalk, to enhance access and visibility for all. The memorial is currently located at the Joseph J. McCarthy Marine Corps Reserve Center in North Park, which was acquired by the city last year. "Recognizing Chicago's rich heritage of military monuments, our administration places great importance on maintaining and safeguarding these historic landmarks," the mayor's office said. The city is partnering with the Mayor's Advisory Council on Veteran Affairs, Grunt Style Foundation, Ald. Gilbert Villegas (36) and Ald. Samantha Nugent (39) on the effort.