News Release

Councillor Asks for Public's Assistance in return of Cenotaph Plaque

(Tuesday, May 25, 2004) - The Bedford Cenotaph located in Fish Hatchery Park became the latest target for vandalism over the long weekend. One of the bronze plaques attached to the cenotaph, listing the names of those Second World War soldiers from the area who died serving our country, was pried loose from the monument late Saturday night and has gone missing.

Councillor Len Goucher (District 21 Bedford), is asking members of the public who may know anything about the persons responsible for the missing plaque, or who may have found the plaque to come forward. Councillor Goucher says "This thoughtless act of vandalizing a monument to our war heroes is very sad and distressing. Obviously, the people responsible for it just weren't thinking about the seriousness of their actions."

He added, "This has greatly upset members of the Bedford Legion who have served our area so well. I know all residents will be disturbed by this act of vandalism to their monument and I'd like to ask for their help in coming forward with any information that may lead to the plaque's immediate return".

The main intent is to have the plaque found and returned. Anyone with information is requested to please call the HRM Call Centre at 490-4000, Councillor Len Goucher at 476-0021, the Mayor's Office or the Bedford Legion. Should anyone come forward with the plaque, they will not be punished and no questions will be asked.

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Contact:

Councillor Len Goucher
District 21 (Bedford)
(902) 476-0021

Lori Patterson
Acting Corporate Communications Officer
(902) 490-6531