The Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund said on Wednesday that vandals hit its site in Washington, D.C.
Photos released by the organization showed areas that had been burned, including where a wreath had been laid and a directory of names.
“We are saddened to report that vandals struck the Vietnam Veterans Memorial site in Washington, DC this week. A wreath that had been laid on the wall was burned along with one of our name books,” said declared the fund in a Facebook. Publish. “Please know that we are working with the relevant authorities on this and will replace the directory of names as soon as possible.”
United States Park Police told Fox News Digital in an emailed statement Wednesday that they received a report of vandalism at the memorial around 9:30 a.m. ET Tuesday.
VANDALIZED WASHINGTON MONUMENT WITH VULGAR MESSAGE; SUSPECT IN DETENTION
“A plastic crown and part of a name book were burned,” he said. “The investigation into this is ongoing and anyone with information is asked to contact USPP at 202-379-4877 or email [email protected].”
Tim Tetz, outreach director of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund, told Fox News Digital on Thursday that the act was a “tragedy”, noting that there had been growing lawlessness in the region over the past few years. last years.
“It’s been to all the other memorials and for some reason over the years everyone has realized the sanctity of this place. And certainly on Monday night that sanctity was absolutely eroded,” he remarked.
The incident happened the same day Park Police arrested Shaun Ray Deaton, 44, of Bloomington, Indiana, for allegedly vandalizing the Washington Monument’s outdoor base with red paint.
Deaton was charged with trespassing, tampering and vandalism.
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American flags are seen at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial during National POW / MIA Appreciation Day on the National Mall September 16, 2022 in Washington, DC
(Photo by Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images)
Park Police said there may be additional charges as the investigation into the incident continues.
The area around the monument has been temporarily closed.
The Washington Monument after cleaning
(NPS/Twitter)
On Wednesday morning, the Monument Preservation team began cleaning up the base and a photo posted later that day showed no trace of the vulgar message.
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“Our team is good! Thanks to the Monument Preservation team for their outstanding work,” wrote the National Park Service.
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