Key Takeaways
- Retired Navy Master Chief Mike Archer's extensive military decoration collection was stolen from in front of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1881.
- The stolen trailer contained almost irreplaceable military decorations, limited-edition photos, coins, flags, and other memorabilia worth an estimated $30,000 to $50,000.
- The collection, gathered over 25 to 30 years, included every medal and decoration for every branch of the service for every war dating back to the Civil War, except for the four Medals of Honor stored separately.
A Veteran's Sacrifice
Retired Navy Master Chief Mike Archer's message to the thieves who stole his trailer filled with an extensive collection of military decorations is clear: don't mess with a group of old veterans and armed individuals. The stolen trailer, belonging to the Fleet Reserve Association (FRA) Wyoming Branch 59, contained thousands of military decorations, limited-edition photos, coins, flags, and other memorabilia worth a significant amount.
Decades of Dedication
Archer and his co-chairman, Al Buss, spent the last 25 to 30 years meticulously gathering this collection, which included every medal and decoration for every branch of the service for every war dating back to the Civil War. The only items not taken were the four Medals of Honor, which were stored separately. Archer emphasized the personal investment they made in curating this collection, often funding it out of their own pockets and dedicating countless hours to its maintenance.
Theft of Valor
Archer describes the theft of the trailer as the "ultimate stolen valor," as each item in the collection represents a veteran's sacrifice. The collection, which requires 50 tables to display, holds significant sentimental value to those who served and their families. Archer expressed his deep disappointment in the thieves who took items that symbolize the sacrifices made by veterans, including those who lost limbs or suffered severe injuries in service.
A Devastating Loss
The Cheyenne Police Department is actively investigating the theft, captured on surveillance cameras mounted at the VFW post. Archer believes the thieves targeted the trailer deliberately, as it was well-known within the community for its valuable contents. Despite the trailer being securely locked, the thieves managed to take off with it, leaving a void in the hearts of those who cherished the collection.
As the investigation unfolds, Archer and the FRA remain hopeful that the stolen items will be recovered and justice will be served. The community has rallied behind them, offering support and assistance in any way possible. The stolen trailer may have been a physical object, but the memories and sentiments attached to the military decorations within hold immeasurable value to those who understand their significance.