POST FALLS - Post Falls has taken the first step to replacing five military emblems that were stolen from Q'emiln Park last October.

A fundraising campaign has been launched to raise $1,400 to replace the emblems.

"We're not going to let the crooks win," said Kerri Thoreson, a city council member and an organizer of the campaign.

"I believe it's important that they be returned to the place of honor near the flag pole, so we have started a community fundraising campaign. Any time a town has an opportunity to recognize and honor veterans and the military in a public place is good. Q'emiln Park has thousands of people enjoying it each year."

Donations, which are not tax-deductible, can be made at Post Falls City Hall or Community 1st Bank in Post Falls and Coeur d'Alene. Checks should be made out to the city of Post Falls.

Post Falls Police Chief Scot Haug said an investigation continues on the missing emblems, but since nearly six months have passed, they won't likely surface.

An anonymous local veteran offered a $500 reward for information leading to the conviction of the suspect.

City council member Skip Hissong and his company, Summit Equipment, will donate labor and materials to upgrade the existing display to thwart further thefts once the new emblems are in place.

For more information, contact Thoreson at KerriT@postfallsidaho.org or 651-7343.