More security measures are on the way to protect the integrity and honour of what's been called one of the most disrespected Cenotaph's in Canada.
The latest vandalism act at the Cenotaph in downtown Chatham happened in late August.
The monument has been defaced three times over the past year.
Chatham-Kent Mayor Darinn Canniff told CK News Today ceremonial decorative fencing will be put around the iconic symbol of courage and freedom.
Chatham's Legion Branch 642 President Len Maynard, a Veteran himself, said he's also working on a presentation to educate students at local schools about what the Cenotaph stands for and how important it is to the Veterans because of the sacrifices they made to protect our way of life.
Mayor Canniff said the decorative fencing is a start and other security measures are being planned to protect the Cenotaph.
"We're going to put some very decorative metal fencing around it to protect it. The people that have been doing it, it's just a whim, it's not a pre-planned or pre-meditated thing. It's just oh well let's do that and I don't think these individuals know any better, that's the problem," said Mayor Canniff.
Maynard said fencing is a good first step and wishes the justice system handed out harsher penalties for defacing Cenotaphs to send a strong message and discourage vandals.
"Something's got to be done. That's a deterrent and they need a strong deterrent. They also need to be handled when their caught so the word gets out that it's not accepted," Maynard said.
Maynard believes being located in a high traffic homeless area next to Tecumseh Park is a key factor for the frequent defacing of the Chatham Cenotaph.
"It's got to stop. People got to learn what that's about and understand the sacrifice that went into that monument. Over all of the other monuments in this city, that came with the highest price and they have to realize that," said Maynard.
Meanwhile, a flag raising ceremony was held outside of the Chatham Civic Centre on Friday to commemorate Legion Week. The Royal Canadian Legion will recognize its first ever National Legion Week this year from September 17-23, 2023.
Commander for the local Legions John Grosvenor said Legion Week started in Chatham about 60 years ago by Chatham Veteran Charlie Moon, something he's extremely proud of.
The week-long event is designed to help educate visitors about the excellent work their local branch does to serve and support military and RCMP Veterans, and how their branch contributes to the well-being of the community itself. It is also a chance to invite new members, and new volunteers.
“This is an exciting time for the Legion and our more than 1,300 branches,” said Dominion President Bruce Julian. “Our members have planned events, open houses, and displays. They will undoubtedly be welcoming new faces including Veterans, and we all look forward to having their support and hearing their ideas.”
The Royal Canadian Legion said National Legion Week will continue to be held each September.
Click here to find a local Legion Branch and more information about events in your region.
