American flag flown for Chesterfield veteran stolen, burned - Toledo News Now, News, Weather, Sports, Toledo, OH

The Fergusons fly an American flag for servicemen and women, specifically their son who was awarded a Purple Heart after he was hit by an IED, but they say someone stole it and burned it.

"I don't know what I would say to them," said Patsi Ferguson. "I know they ought to be ashamed of themselves."

The stars and stripes have flown proudly at their home for 13 years, since the day their son Travis joined the Army.

"We fly it not just for Travis, but for all the other men and women who serve our country, who lost their lives, and keep us free," explained Patsi Ferguson.  

Travis' family certainly made the sacrifice. Travis' foot was crushed after the vehicle he was in was hit by an IED in Afghanistan. Travis faced a long recovery from his injuries.

When the flag went missing, the Fergusons never imagined what came next - police found the flag minutes away from the Ferguson home in Swift Bluff Court, burned in a chair.

"We were just so shocked by it," said Michael Ferguson, Travis' father.

Worse yet, they say they had to call their son Travis, who lost friends fighting to defend what the flag stands for.

"A lot of people sacrifice their lives for that flag, and to see someone burning it is kinda sad," said Travis.

The Fergusons say whoever did this could never know the sacrifice made by soldiers and their families - how hurtful the act was.

"All I know is the whole time Travis was over there, we prayed that he would come back safe," said Michael.

The Fergusons already have another flag, because they say not even this can keep them from saluting the brave men and women who defend freedom.

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