Veterans Memorial on Oregon Coast Vandalized by Graffiti, Police Seek Tips

Published 10/21/2026 at 8:55 a.m.
By Oregon Coast Beach Connection Staff

(Newport, Oregon) – Police on the central Oregon coast are looking for tips in the spray paint vandalism of Nye Beach's memorial installation.

The Newport Police Department is seeking the public’s help after a Vietnam Veterans Memorial near Don and Ann Davis Park was vandalized sometime during the morning of October 20.

According to the agency, an unknown individual damaged the memorial, which sits just below the bronze obelisk on a pathway down to the beach. Authorities described the incident as particularly disheartening due to the memorial’s significance in recognizing those who have served the country.

Investigators are asking anyone who witnessed suspicious activity in the area or has information about the vandalism to contact Officer Coren Loper at 541-574-3348. The case number is NPP26013679.

Tips can also be submitted through the Newport Police Department Tip Line at 541-574-5455, by text at 541-270-1856, or by email at tipline@newportpolice.net.

“We appreciate our community’s assistance in identifying the person responsible,” the agency said.

Police also asked community members not to post the names of anyone they believe may be a suspect on social media or in online comments.

The memorial has been at the central Oregon coast beach access since the '90s, created by artist Frank Boyden. He initially declined to submit a proposal for Newport’s Vietnam Veterans Memorial, citing his strong opposition to the Vietnam War and his participation in anti-war demonstrations.

He eventually gave in and was emotionally connected to the project by the stories of veterans, considering the experience a powerful one.

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