M1 Garand rifle
Pomona’s American Legion Post 30 has fallen victim to a relentless wave of burglaries, leaving the historic building in shambles and its irreplaceable war memorabilia destroyed.
The most recent incident occurred on December 30, when nine WWII-era rifles, used for ceremonies like the 21-gun salute, were stolen. The theft adds to the extensive damage inflicted during a series of break-ins that have plagued the post since its closure during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Javier Hinostroza, the Commander of the American Legion Post, expressed the severity of the situation, highlighting the disappearance of ceremonial M1 Garands. Loaded with blanks, these rifles pose a safety concern as they can be modified to accommodate live ammunition. The theft was captured on security cameras, revealing at least one intruder jumping over a bar inside the building.
The post has faced escalating challenges since closing its doors due to the pandemic. Transients, addicts, and thieves have taken over the property, leaving behind needles, condoms, and feces. The burglaries began with minor incidents, but as the post remained closed, criminals disabled alarms, ripped doors off hinges, and vandalized rooms that had hosted Veterans for over a century.
Despite the installation of numerous security cameras, Veterans say that police response times are slow, allowing criminals to wreak havoc on the historic building. Bob Radcliff, a Vietnam Veteran, described the loss of not only the physical items but also the historical value associated with the post. The destruction includes historical Vietnam photos displayed on a wall, which were torn down and trampled on.
This incident reflects a broader trend affecting American Legion Posts. “This is certainly not the first time an American Legion Post has lost their Honor/Color Guard weapons,” U.S. Army Veteran Eric Measles, who served in Korea and is a Life Member of Ronald Reagan-Palisades Post 283, pointed out.
In the year 2020, thieves targeted American Legion Post 289 in Riverside, making off with approximately $30,000 worth of equipment. Similar incidents have been reported across the nation, including at American Legion Post 18, where a chainsaw, Glock pistol, seven military rifles, and two custom doors, valued at a thousand dollars each, were stolen.
“It is important that all Posts that have these weapons should have them properly recorded and secured,” stated Measles, emphasizing the need for enhanced security measures. “The local authorities should be notified immediately upon discovery of any loss.”
Measles, with over 30 years as a Legionnaire, urges Legion Posts to conduct complete inventory checks regularly to safeguard valuable and collectible weapons.
With the Pomona Legion Post 30 now planning to sell the building due to financial constraints, the broader call for increased vigilance and security measures echoes across American Legion Posts. Despite the challenges, American Legion Post 30 remains determined to relocate within the city, continuing its mission of serving Veterans.
Those willing to assist American Legion Post 30 can contact Javier.Hino@americanlegionpomona30.org for more information.
Author: Rikki Almanza
Rikki is a Web Content Coordinator for the American Legion, Department of California. With a deep-rooted connection to the military, a spouse who is a Navy veteran, a father who served in the Air Force for 25 years, and a grandfather who proudly served, Rikki is committed to using her skills and knowledge to provide valuable assistance and resources to servicemembers and veterans.