New York Mayor Eric Adams expressed anger and disgust after anti-Israel protesters vandalized a World War I memorial in New York City. The 107th United States Infantry monument, located along Central Park on the Upper East Side, was targeted with pro-Palestinian stickers, graffiti of “Free Gaza,” and burning of the American flag. Adams, a strong advocate for respecting memorials of those who fought for democracy and human rights, offered a personal reward of $5,000 to catch the vandals, while the NYPD Crime Stoppers offered an additional $10,000 as a reward. Video footage showed demonstrators placing a flag on the statue and using spray paint to advocate for Palestinians in the Gaza Strip.
Official noted that the memorial is unique as it honors the Doughboys, the troops under Army Gen. John Pershing’s American Expeditionary Forces, rather than high-ranking military officials like other monuments. Senator Tom Cotton, who served in Iraq and Afghanistan as a U.S. Army Infantry officer, accused the protesters of committing felony violations of the Veterans’ Memorial Preservation and Recognition Act by defacing the memorial to the 107th Infantry. City Councilor Vickie Paladino praised a friend who cleared the site of “Hamas propaganda” and planted American flags in response to the vandalism. The Veterans of Foreign Wars group reiterated their support for the first amendment rights of freedom of speech and peaceful assembly while also supporting the rule of law.
In addition to the vandalism at the memorial, protesters also placed a Palestinian flag on a statue honoring Union Army Gen. William Tecumseh Sherman near Central Park. NYPD officers intervened to block the crowd as one officer climbed a ladder to remove the flag and the monument was also defaced with spray paint. Three suspects are being sought in connection with that alleged act of vandalism. The incidents come amid anti-Israel protests in the area, which have sparked controversy and backlash from officials and veterans’ groups. The vandalism has attracted widespread condemnation and prompted calls for the perpetrators to be brought to justice for their actions.
The desecration of war memorials holds significant emotional weight for many, including Mayor Adams, whose uncle died while serving in Vietnam at a young age. The vandalism has struck a chord with veterans and advocates for honoring the sacrifices made by those who fought for democracy and human rights. Anti-Israel protesters engaging in such actions have drawn criticism for their methods and disregard for the significance of these memorials. The incidents highlight the tensions and divisions surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the impact of these issues on communities and public spaces in cities like New York.
The response from officials, veterans’ groups, and community members to the vandalism has been swift and forceful, with calls for accountability and respect for the memorials of those who served their country. The $15,000 reward offered for information leading to the capture of the vandals underscores the seriousness with which the authorities are treating the crimes. The incidents have reignited discussions about the importance of upholding the rule of law, respecting public spaces, and finding constructive ways to address contentious political issues without resorting to destructive actions. As investigations continue and efforts to restore the memorials are underway, the incidents serve as a stark reminder of the need to preserve and protect the legacies of those who have served in defense of the values and freedoms that we cherish.
