Vandals Smash Manitowoc War Memorial Honoring Local Heroes; Police Search for Suspects
MANITOWOC, WISCONSIN — Police are investigating after a local war memorial honoring Wisconsin veterans was vandalized and severely damaged this week in Manitowoc.
According to the Manitowoc Police Department, several suspects are believed to have targeted the 32nd Infantry Division “Red Arrow” memorial at Red Arrow Park, located at 1931 South 9th Street, sometime between Monday night and early Tuesday morning.
Memorial Bricks Smashed and Scattered
Investigators say the suspects removed memorial bricks from the ground and smashed them on the concrete surrounding the monument and flag display area, leaving behind significant damage to a site meant to honor fallen soldiers.
“Our police department is looking for information on the suspects of this inexcusable criminal act so they can be held accountable for their actions,” the Manitowoc Police Department said in a statement.
Officials say the vandalism has deeply upset local veterans and families whose loved ones’ names were inscribed on the memorial bricks.
Memorial Recently Completed by Community Volunteers
The damaged monument had been part of a community-led restoration project spearheaded by The Friends of Red Arrow, a local volunteer organization that recently completed the memorial just a few months ago.
The site honors members of the 32nd Infantry Division, a National Guard unit from Wisconsin and Michigan known for its service in World War I and World War II.
“This is a memorial built to honor service, sacrifice, and family,” said one volunteer. “To see it damaged so soon after completion is heartbreaking.”
Police Asking for Public’s Help
Authorities are urging residents with home security footage or information about suspicious activity near Red Arrow Park on October 6 to contact investigators immediately.
Anyone with information can call the Manitowoc Police Department at (920) 686-6551 or Crime Stoppers at (920) 683-4466. Tipsters may remain anonymous and could be eligible for a cash reward.
The vandalism has sparked outrage throughout the Manitowoc community, with residents demanding swift justice for the destruction of a memorial that stood as a symbol of honor and remembrance. For continued updates on Wisconsin local news and police investigations, visit ChicagoMusicGuide.com.