While mowing the lawn along the shore of Lake Gleneida in the Hamel of Carmel, a county highway department employee notice two flags were missing from the Row of Honor display.
Missing from the group representing the military branches of service were the flags of the United States Marines and the United States Merchant Marines.
County Executive MaryEllen Odell, who was out of the County attending a New York State Association of Counties conference was clearly upset when told of the theft.
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“I can’t believe this! I can’t believe anyone would steal part of the display honoring our veterans,” Odell said. “This was such a stupid, senseless act and shows a total lack of respect not only for property that belongs to the county but to flags that honor our military, living and dead.”
Odell’s office reached out to Brian Benedict who owns and operates the Duffle Bag, a military surplus supply store in Patterson. Benedict immediately sent replacement flags to be used for the duration of the display.
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Sheriff Donald Smith issued a statement expressing his dismay and seeking information from the public on the theft.
“I am deeply saddened and appalled in hearing about the theft of these flags. While my office is investigating this larceny complaint, Carmel Police Chief Michael Cazzari and I have directed our patrols to increase their security checks along Lake Gleneida when possible. Anyone having information concerning this incident is urged to call the Sheriff’s Office at 845-225-4300 or the Carmel Police Department at 845-628-1300. All calls will be kept confidential,” said Sheriff Donald B. Smith
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