OKEECHOBEE — Once again, vandals have struck Veterans’ Square Park.
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Veteran Gregg Maynard brought attention to the vandalism on Facebook on the morning of Jan. 2 after he discovered what was done. According to Maynard, they ripped the seat out of the big gun and tore open the door of the helicopter.
Many expressed their disgust with the blatant disrespect toward our veterans. This is the second time in about a month that vandals have damaged the helicopter and gun. Maynard expressed concern that if this keeps happening, the door will have to be replaced, and the doors are not cheap. He posted a picture of a set selling for $1,800.
Jeneane Rhuda said her father was a paratrooper in the United States Army and fought in Vietnam. The helicopter in the park was special to him, bringing back memories both good and bad.
Suggestions suggested on social media to combat this threat ranged from an electric fence to armed veterans patrolling the park to cameras.
If anyone has any information, please contact the Okeechobee City Police Department at 863-763-5521.