Hilltop cross destroyed

Victor Valley Daily Press ^ | .March 1, 2013 | RENE DE LA CRUZ, Staff Writer

[BenLurkin]

VICTORVILLE • As Easter approaches, some High Desert residents have wondered if the wooden cross that went missing in January would ever return to its rocky perch overlooking the Mojave Narrows Bridge.

But the cross that greeted commuters along Highway 18 and gave hope to many senior residents at the River Ranch Mobile Park on Stoddard Wells Road near the bridge has been destroyed.

Daily Press Staff Photographer David Pardo found the cross in pieces when he climbed the hill Friday afternoon on a photo assignment to investigate a report that it was missing.

“I know that the cross to many is just a piece of wood, but it’s the symbol behind it,” said Susan Herrera of Apple Valley. “Our flag is only material, but it stands for our freedom and sacrifice to get it.”

Jodie Whitehead, of Hesperia, shared her perspective on the cross’ destruction.

“Destroying a symbol of hope cannot destroy our faith,” Whitehead said. “All such efforts are futile. Hate and ignorance will continue, but so will our faith in God.”

[Excellence]

The cross is back. Just thought I’d let you know, unless you live in the Victor Valley and know it already.

[BenLurkin]

Thanks!

That it good news!