THE campaign medals of a World War II veteran have been stolen in a daylight burglary at Beechworth.
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The two medals were taken while the man went out for a short time on Wednesday afternoon.
The thieves also took another medal the man owned that was from World War I.
It was one of two burglaries in Beechworth in a short time. Few details have been released.
Leading Sen-Constable Rachael Kelly, of Wodonga police, said yesterday the man was very upset about the theft.
“The victim was in the war as a German soldier,” she said.
“The medals don’t have a monetary value but obviously there is a sentimental value.
“He’s had them for a long time and if we could get them back it would be fantastic.”
Sen-Constable Kelly said the burglaries were believed to be linked, despite occurring at opposite ends of Beechworth.
She said the break-ins both happened between 1.30pm and 2.30pm.
“We know that because both the victims went out at the same time.”
Sen-Constable Kelly said camping gear, machetes, army knives and similar replicas — along with “lots of other little bits and pieces” — were also stolen.
“As well as the medals , a pearl necklace and earrings were also taken,” she said.
The total value of the haul was at least $3000.
Police are also hoping to speak to a man seen in the area at the time of the break-ins.
Anyone with information about the burglaries can contact the Wodonga police criminal investigation unit on (02) 6049 2700 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.