Park officials were notified of two separate incidents of vandalism at Gettysburg National Military Park on August 15 and 19.

Park staff reported that graffiti was scratched into the large stones of several boulders on Little Round Top on August 15. Visitors to the battlefield reported that the historic War Department observation tower on Oak Ridge was sprayed with graffiti on August 19.

But by August 20, all traces of these two acts of vandalism had been removed by park maintenance employees, according to a press release.

Park Supervisor Kristina Heister said, “It was deeply distressing when these two incidents of vandalism were reported within days of each other. We feared that the graffiti carved into the rocks might still be visible for future generations. I am so grateful to our amazing historic preservation staff who have so quickly and expertly restored these sites so that visitors can continue to experience them as they were intended. They are truly the heroes of this sacred ground!”

Throughout the National Park Service, visitors are asked to assist park staff by immediately reporting any instances of vandalism or illegal activity.

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Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact the park at 717-334-0909 or email [email protected].

In all emergencies, visitors should always call 9-1-1.

The Gettysburg County Police Department is also investigating several incidents of vandalism throughout the county and at Gettysburg College. Several areas have also been spray painted.

You are requested to visit the website at the following address: https://adams.crimewatchpa.com/gettysburgpd for more information or to give a tip.