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Torrington to assume Army loan for WWII howitzer; council seeks permanent home for the artifact
Summary
Council authorized submission of an application to the U.S. Army to transfer the loan of an M114A2 howitzer to the city for continued static display and discussed potential relocation to a future veterans park while stressing preservation and public access.
Torrington — The City Council voted Dec. 16 to pursue transferring the U.S. Army loan for an M114A2 Series howitzer (serial no. 5982) to the city so the piece can remain on public display.
Public Works staff explained the VFW-held loan had lapsed and the VFW asked whether the city would assume responsibility to maintain and preserve the unit. "We are trying to secure the piece," a staff member said, describing cleaning, repainting and pad preparations the city plans. Council members emphasized the howitzer's historical prominence in Coe Memorial Park and discussed whether it should remain downtown or be moved to a planned veterans park on the Red Mountain parcel. One council member said relocating an iconic artifact would require a strong reason: "That down [Coal] Park has become a place of an honored, hallowed piece of ground for many generations of veterans," he said.
Staff noted moving the howitzer would require Army approval and that site specifications (pad topography, foundation) must meet loan conditions. The council approved submittal of the Army application and instructed staff to work with the parks commission and veterans groups on an appropriate long‑term location and maintenance plan.
What’s next: The city will submit the Army application to transfer the loan and coordinate with the parks & recreation and veterans committees on upkeep and any future relocation.
