Photo: cesarrosphoto / iStock Unreleased / Getty Images
New York State Police are seeking the public's help to solve the mystery of a bronze memorial plaque honoring a World War II soldier that was discovered along Route 365 in Verona.
The heavy bronze memorial, found last October by a good Samaritan who later turned it in to authorities, commemorates Sergeant Harold B. Cole, who was born April 29, 1916, and died on June 8, 1943. The plaque bears the inscription "Died serving his country" and notes it was "Presented by his comrades."
"Due to the weight and construction of the plaque, troopers believe it likely originated from a monument, memorial site, or similar permanent display," state police said in a statement.
Research by The Daily Gazette uncovered that Sgt. Cole was from Steubenville, Ohio – approximately 450 miles southwest of where the plaque was found. According to newspaper records, Cole had served in North Africa with British armored forces and had been wounded during the Tunisian campaign.
Cole didn't die in combat, however. Historical newspaper articles reveal he was killed in an automobile crash near Steubenville while home on leave, when his car struck a pole. He had reportedly entered the Army in 1937 and was scheduled to report for service in Texas just 11 days after his death.
The mystery remains how this memorial plaque traveled from Ohio to end up discarded along a highway in central New York. Some commenters on news reports have speculated it may have been stolen for its scrap value and then accidentally lost during transport.
State police are asking anyone who recognizes the plaque or has information about where it belongs to contact them at 315-366-6000, referencing case number NY2501025152.