National World War II Memorial Vandalized in Washington, D.C.

The National World War II Memorial in Washington, D.C., was vandalized on Thursday with red graffiti that read "Clean Hands Dirty $" and soap was dumped into its fountain, creating bubbles. U.S. Park Police are investigating the incident, which has led to the fountain being blocked off. The Interior Department described the act as an "utter disgrace" and pledged to identify those responsible. Interior Department spokesman Cody Sargent condemned the vandalism, calling it the work of "deranged losers." The memorial, dedicated by President George W. Bush in 2004, honors the service of millions of Americans during World War II. It features a Freedom Wall with 4,048 gold stars, each representing 100 military deaths. The incident has drawn condemnation from tourists, with one visitor expressing sadness over the vandalism. D.C. Police and National Guard troops began securing the area around 4 PM. This incident follows another act of vandalism on the National Mall in June, where graffiti referencing President Donald Trump was found. No suspects have been identified.