Sunday I drove down Government Way in Hayden and saw that a flag that was posted on a light post for Veterans Day had broken and was flying upside down. My children asked if that was proper as I was recently medically retired due to combat injuries as a Staff Sergeant in the United States Army, Airborne Cavalry. I explained proper flag etiquette and assured them that it would be fixed before day's end.

That evening on the way to the gas station I noticed that it was still in a position of distress. I stopped my truck on the road and for the next 30 minutes I worked at releasing and securing Old Glory with the intent of bringing it to Hayden City Hall. City Hall was closed as it was a Sunday so I attempted to leave a message on their answering system. It was on my way home that I was pulled over by sheriff's deputies because someone reported a theft.

That flag was in a position of distress all day long and instead of offering to help me or doing the right thing themselves I was reported as being a petty criminal. It disgusts me that no one has any patriotism or self-discipline to do the right thing and find it easier to make a phone call. I told my children I did the right thing; I didn't tell them I was treated like a criminal. I hope they learn that being a citizen carries responsibilities.

RICHARD SCIASCIA

Hayden