World War I Statue Stolen

The September 12th Ohio.com reports that a WW I statue was stolen in Lakemore, Ohio, from where it has stood for more than 70 years. The thieves broke it off at the feet. It is called "Resting Doughboy" and was on a six feet tall granite base in the center of town and served as a centerpiece for Memorial and Veterans day activities.

It was created in 1936 by Indiana artist E. M. Viquesney and depicted a WW I doughboy at rest with his helmet pushed back and rifle in his left hand. It was dedicated in either 1937 or 1938.

The thought is that the thieves believed it was bronze and worth something as scrap (it was zinc). Police have no leads.Lakemore plans an erected a new statue to replace it.

About 130 Spirit of the American Doughboy statues were erected across the country, but Lakemore's was smaller than the rest and in a different pose.

Give Us Back Our Doughboy!! --Coot