Tampa

Tampa Firefighters Find 6 Flags in Trash on Memorial Day

Firefighters in Tampa were "disgusted" to find six American flags covered in debris with flies buzzing about them in a dumpster on Memorial Day.

As NBC affiliate WFLA reports, authorities believe the flags were stolen from local businesses. The flag poles were bent, likely from efforts to remove them from the ground.

The dumpster the flags were found in is right next to an Air Force base and right behind the Port Tampa fire station.

Crews were able to restore four of the flags. They now fly proudly in front of the fire station. Two of the flags had been so badly damaged that they are being taken to the American Legion post to be properly disposed of.

According to the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), proper flag etiquette indicates that the proper and honorable way to dispose of an American flag includes folding it in its customary manner and burning the flag while those disposing of the flag salute, recite the Pledge of Allegiance and have a "brief period of silent reflection."

Tampa Police are investigating the incident.

Contact Us