By Paula J. Owen
As published by the Worcester Telegram & Gazette
May 13, 2016

LEICESTER — A local politician is stepping up to replace the large American flag stolen from the town Common during the night earlier this week.

U.S. Air Force veteran Thomas V. Brennan Jr., who served as a selectman for 20 years and is master of ceremonies for the town’s Memorial Day observances, said state Sen. Michael O. Moore, D-Millbury, called Thursday and offered to replace the flag.

“It is a wonderful gesture,” Mr. Brennan said. “Everyone is quick to criticize an elected official — it is like a national pastime — but it really should be acknowledged when an elected official steps up to the plate and takes a leadership position that one of his communities isn’t going to suffer when he can do something about it. It makes a statement that he stands with us.”

He said Mr. Moore offered to replace the flag, which measured about 8 feet by 10 feet and was cut away from the pole where it had been flying. The flag is replaced by the town every year and is worth about $200, Mr. Brennan said.

“He said he wanted (Memorial Day) to go off seamless and not have anything damper it,” Mr. Brennan said. “The town really exemplifies what the flag means, the national pride the town has and how we honor our veterans.”

Mr. Moore’s staff said the replacement flag has been ordered, and he will deliver it to town officials himself.

“I first learned of the incident when speaking with former Selectman Tom Brennan,” Mr. Moore said in an email. “Helping to replace the flag wasn’t a question — I was more focused on how soon a new flag could be raised. Those responsible for this act, regardless of their motivations, will never be able to hinder the spirit of our community, or the values embodied by our nation’s flag. On behalf of local residents, veterans and citizens of our country, I felt it was important to take action to replace this symbol of unification and freedom.”

But Sen. Moore isn’t the only one wanting to help.

Police Chief James J. Hurley said he has been overwhelmed with calls from people offering to replace the flag. Two people also came into the station with flags, offering to donate them, he said, and others have stopped in at Town Hall offering to help.

“It is nice to see that much support for the town and our veterans,” Chief Hurley said. “That is a community gathering place, up there where it was taken from.”

Since Leicester was established in 1713, 110 veterans have died in the line of duty, Mr. Brennan said.

Memorial Day events kick off with a parade that starts at the town Common at 10:30 a.m.

Police are still investigating the incident and ask anyone with information to contact Officer Steven Zecco at zeccos@leicesterpd.org or at (508) 892-7010, ext. 2006.

Source: http://www.telegram.com/article/20160513/NEWS/160519624?utm_content=buffer75a0b&utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter.com&utm_campaign=buffer