Mayor: Donors stepping up to replace markers
LNASDALE >> Several donors have stepped up in the wake of the theft of dozens of markers honoring veterans at the Lansdale Cemetery.
Mayor Garry Herbert gave an update Friday on efforts to replace the grave markers that have gone missing in recent weeks.
“Over the last 24 hours, the Lansdale VFW, the Lansdale Historical Society and I have been discussing how we can make sure veterans are commemorated with the appropriate markers as soon as possible,” Herbert said Friday.
“Within hours of the VFW committing to raising funds for the replacement markers, several generous and dedicated community members reached out to the VFW committing to paying for the replacement of the markers,” he said.
On Tuesday borough police announced they’re investigating the theft of 56 markers, largely made of brass or bronze, that had been
placed on the graves of veterans at the borough-maintained cemetery at Broad Street and Whites Road. The county commissioners condemned the theft on Thursday, a day after Herbert announced he had been in talks with the police and several local groups about ways to replace those taken.
Friday morning, Herbert said he was “happy to announce that our community has come together to help correct the frustrating — and frankly, disheartening — theft of veteran grave markers in our community cemetery.”
“Looking forward, the VFW and the Historical
Society will be working together to order and place the markers in advance of Founders Day (assuming delivery is on time),” he said, referring to the borough’s birthday celebration on Aug. 28 when cemetery tours are planned.
In a post on his “Mayoral Musings” column on North Penn Now, Herbert added thanks for those who have donated.
“I cannot tell you how heartwarming and appreciative I am of everyone who has stepped up to support the replacement of these markers. Additionally, the outpouring of support for our veterans is deeply appreciated. While the crime committed against our deceased veterans is, and will always be, wildly unacceptable, it warms my heart to see just how passionate and caring Lansdale is. This is who our community is at our core. We care for one another, we support one another, and we will work together to right wrongs when they occur.”
“The investigation of the theft is ongoing, and I remain hopeful that we will be able to identify the individuals involved in this crime. Regardless of finding those involved, Lansdale has shown that we are better than they could ever be. We are united as a community, and we will stand for one another in moment’s notice. Thank you to the VFW and the Historical Society for their intrepid work on this issue, and thank you Lansdale for being an amazing community. I am honored to stand arm in arm with all of you!” Herbert said.