Mean thieves steal tribute to heroes

Whangarei RSA president Chris Harold sits where the sign with the wording "Lest We Forget" was, until it was stolen. Photo / Michael Cunningham

Thieves have struck at the very heart of the Whangarei Returned Services Association and stolen a sign engraved with the sacred words "Lest We Forget".

The kauri slab has greeted visitors to the Whangarei RSA Club on Rust Ave since it was bolted into place on November 11, 2001.

But last Friday night, thieves armed with the tools they needed unscrewed four bolts on the corners of the 2-metre long sign and have left just the white painted posts it was attached to.

The theft has devastated RSA president Chris Harold and he has taken it personally.

"It just about brought me to tears when I walked in and was told about it. It's the sort of thing you don't expect at an RSA anywhere in the world," Mr Harold said.

He said the three words "Lest We Forget" were known around the world to show remembrance of those who fought, and those who died fighting for freedom.

"Somewhere down the line in their [the thieves'] family history, there will have been a member who has gone to war.

"They are attacking their own family member and disrespecting all others who have lost their lives. It's heartbreaking."

With Anzac Day less than two months away, Mr Harold said it was crucial they had the sign returned before then.

"I can't think of what they will do with the sign.

"It seems pointless and no gain at all."

The sign was donated by D'Arcy and Jan Bailey. Last year it was taken down sanded, varnished and the lettering darkened before being put back in pride of place.

It would have taken at least two people to carry the sign and a vehicle to take it away.

Another wooden plaque bolted to a concrete wall less than 5m away was nearly taken by the thieves. Three of four bolts had been removed.

However, Mr Harold said the memorial rose garden plaque had now been removed and was in storage until the other sign had been returned.

Police had also been notified but Mr Harold appealed to anyone who may know where the sign was to return it the RSA.

"We want it back for Anzac Day, that's critical," he said.