Flag Painted Over Swastika Vandalism on Iconic Rock

At Bolton Notch State Park stands a rock painted with the American flag that has been there for more than a decade. It's become a landmark for the area and something many greet with pride.

Recently the Town of Bolton was alerted about swastikas painted over the flag. While both face left, which can represent luck in Buddhism, many believe those responsible only meant hate.

The town alerted state police and DEEP, but the inclement weather and precarious location made it impossible to fix right away.

When wounded veteran Micah Welintukonis found out about it from a friend and Vernon firefighter, the two grabbed spray paint cans and made the difficult journey to the rock.

"There is three feet of snow just getting up there," said First Selectman Bob Morra.

After about an hour Welintukonis finished bringing life back to Old Glory.

"As First Selectman, also as a veteran I was extremely thankful that someone took the initiative, quite an initiative, to go out there and take care of it," said Morra.

Welintukonis says he has a message for those responsible.

"If it happens again we'll be watching and these people will get caught," said Welintukonis.

DEEP says they take this incident very seriously and that EnCon Police are investigating along with state police.

Welintukonis is offering a $500 reward for information leading to an arrest.
 

Contact Us