Crime against our fallen heroes deserves a severe response

Once, the idea of vandalizing a statue honoring an American veteran was unthinkable.

Today, however, not only is vandalism of memorials acceptable for some — as seen during the Black Lives Matter protests in the summer of 2020 — but so is theft, as evidenced by a recent incident.

A bronze statue depicting a US soldier kneeling before a battle cross — a helmet and rifle placed in empty combat boots to pay tribute to a fallen comrade — was stolen. The theft occurred at the Paramount Armed Forces Memorial near Paramount City Hall on August 19.

Installed by the city of Paramount in November 2024, the statue was likely stolen this month for the metal’s raw value, estimated to be worth $100,000 on the black market.

The thieves managed to cut the statue from its base despite the presence of several security cameras at the site. The Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department reports having video evidence of this audacious and disrespectful crime.

The perpetrators seemed confident in escaping punishment for their bold act.

This was not the first time the statue faced such an attack.

In May 2025, parts of the statue were vandalized and stolen. The city subsequently replaced the missing parts, reinforced the statue, and enhanced security with cameras and other measures.

These efforts seem futile, as some continue to value scrap metal over honoring military sacrifices.

This crime requires more than just public indignation.

It must be thoroughly investigated, solved, and brought to justice by LA District Attorney Nathan Hochman within the full capacity of the law.

Moreover, elected officials and community leaders should strongly condemn such acts. It is crucial to eradicate the notion that attacking American memorials is acceptable.

Countless Californians have sacrificed their lives in wars for the nation, including the current conflict in Iran.

The United States deeply values these sacrifices and supports the families of those fallen. Each generation of service members inspires the next.

While wars can be divisive — as seen with the Vietnam War and the current mixed opinions on the Iran conflict — unity in supporting troops, veterans, and the fallen is essential.

Such a disgraceful crime demands a fittingly severe response.

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