Monessen flags vandalized

The patriotic display along Schoonmaker Avenue is a tradition in the city.

For generations, rows of American flags lining Schoonmaker Avenue have served as a symbol of patriotism and community pride in Monessen every Independence Day.

This year, the familiar display became the target of vandalism, leaving firefighters and residents saddened as police search for those responsible.

Several American flags displayed along Schoonmaker Avenue between Third and Fourth streets were damaged around 5:30 p.m. Saturday, according to Monessen Volunteer Fire Department Station No. 1, which has maintained the annual tradition for years after taking over the project from the Boy Scouts.

The department said the flags, donated by Monessen residents and business owners, are displayed to honor the country while celebrating the city’s sense of community.

“Our department’s values are deeply rooted in community, tradition, respect and honor,” the department said in a statement. “That is why it is truly upsetting to see these flags treated with such disrespect, especially on a day meant to celebrate our nation and the freedoms they represent.”

Monessen Municipal Fire Chief Delmar Hepple said he first learned of the damage early Sunday after receiving a phone call from a resident, and the department immediately responded to see what had happened.

The department has maintained the flags for years, after taking over responsibility for the display years ago to ensure the tradition would continue.

“It was important to recognize these folks. Some of them gave their time, some of them gave their lives,” Hepple said. “It was a worthwhile cause, and I fully stand behind our department and our firefighters who continue to maintain this out of the goodness of their hearts.”

While the American flags themselves appear to be salvageable, Hepple said the poles and mounting hardware were damaged and will have to be replaced.

For Hepple, the annual display carries personal meaning. He recalled seeing the flags as a young boy.

“In 1976, it might seem bigger when you are a child, but it taught me a lot,” Hepple said. “It is about pride for our community, and this should be a prideful time right now. To see this happening, especially this weekend, it’s sickening.

“I am not sure why someone would do this, but it is definitely a crime and we are going to get to the bottom of it.”

The fire department said it believes the display represents far more than flags lining a city street.

“These flags represent pride, sacrifice and the spirit of Monessen,” the department said. “We are saddened by what happened, but we know our community is stronger than the actions of one individual.”

A police report has been filed.

Monessen Police Chief Dave Yuhasz said Sunday that only limited information was available but confirmed the investigation remains ongoing.

The fire department is asking anyone with surveillance video, information or possible leads to contact the City of Monessen Police Department or send a message through the department’s Facebook page.

Anonymous tips can be reported to Monessen police by calling 724-684-4620.

“We are asking our community to come together and help us protect the traditions that so many people have worked hard to continue,” the department said. “Thank you for your continued support.”