Theft may keep flags from flying on Memorial Day

A sight that has become something of a staple in Thermopolis the last few years, Hawk's Avenue of Flags, may not be on display this Memorial Day due to the theft of four flags and poles.

The theft was discovered on Monday when sometime between 6:30 a.m. and 7 a.m. a bag containing the flags, a note and $311.50 was found outside the VFW.

The note said the theft occurred some time in January when the trailer that is used to store the flags was parked at Raptor's on Shoshoni.

Signed by "A Single Mother", the note expressed regret at what had happened, but did not want to ruin her son's life. About $30 of the money left with the bag of flags was in change inside a sock.

One of the flags stolen was Don 'Hawk' Hawkins' coffin flag, the man whom the display is named after.

Although the four coffin flags were returned, the poles on which they flew have disappeared. After an inventory of the flags, Ross Hawkins said they know which poles are missing.

The stolen flags were not defaced, however, the remaining flags still need to be examined to ensure they are intact as well.

John Gerrels with the VFW said the flags, note and money left behind have all been turned over to the police department.

"This could have been a learning experience for this kid," Hawkins said. "They could have come down to the VFW, met the vets and learned why we honor them the way we do."

Since the theft was discovered, people have stepped up and offered to replace the poles, but at this point, its simply too late to get them ordered, have the personalized plaques made and get them here in time to display for Memorial Day.

Hawkins said he understands the mother's reticence to come forward, but, "He needs to do community service. This shouldn't be on his record, but let's teach him what is morally right."

Gerrels would like to see the flags go up in spite of this setback.

"You know," he said, "you don't quit in battle because you lose three or four men."

Watch for updates on social media letting people know whether the flags will fly or not.