Vandals deface World War II cannon in Memorial Park in Pottstown.
POTTSTOWN >> Area residents and veterans were upset after it was discovered that a World War II cannon on display in town was defaced with graffiti.
One group that was particularly disappointed to come across the writing was The Veterans’ Island Project, a non-profit group dedicated to maintaining and enhancing the island at Memorial Park.
Michael Murphy, a member of the Veterans’ Island Project, noticed the graffiti on March 12 after being away on vacation.
Murphy says a police report has not been filed but that this is a good opportunity to work toward moving the cannon to a better location.
Currently, the cannon sits at the Manatawny Street entrance to the island. The group is looking to move it closer to the World War II Memorial where members believe it would be better suited.
“We want to move the cannon over by the World War II Memorial. Maybe people will respect it more if it’s over there where it’s supposed to be instead of over by the bridge,” said Murphy.
Additionally, the group is also looking for help with refurbishing the historic item to get rid of the graffiti and return it back to its former glory.
“We are looking for donated services or donations to help refurbish and relocate this piece of history closer to the WWII Memorial,” read a post on the group’s Facebook page. “Any help or advice is much appreciated.”
The Vietnam Veterans Pottstown Chapter 565 maintains the Vietnam War Memorial through fundraising efforts and an organized cleanup of the memorial grounds once a year. There is no organized effort behind maintaining the World War II Memorial or other structures, which is why the Veterans’ Island Project was created, according to their flier.
The group serves as an oversight committee to help with fundraising efforts for the upkeep of memorials and plaques as well as fixing damages and future planning.
Until the cannon can be refurbished and moved, however, Murphy says he hopes people show more respect toward the monuments and the island and what they represent.
“I wish people would respect the cannon and the memorials down at the park. Men and women have sacrificed their lives for our freedom. And we should try to preserve history as much as possible,” said Murphy.