To the editor:

To the person who stole the cardinal solar light from my dad’s grave at Soldier’s Rest in the New Ulm Cemetery on Memorial Day: You didn’t just take a garden ornament. You took something deeply symbolic, a light placed with love, in remembrance and honor of my dad.

The moment I saw it was gone, I felt sick. That light wasn’t expensive, but it had deep meaning. A cardinal — a symbol of hope, presence, and love – chosen specifically for my dad.

Stealing from a veteran’s grave is beyond disrespectful. It violates not only the memory of the person buried there, but also the sacredness of the space we come to for peace and healing. Cemeteries are not places for theft — they are places for honor, healing, and quiet remembrance.

Whoever did this shame on you, you should be truly ashamed. Do better.

Cyndi Fromm McArdell

Shakopee