State flags stolen from Crawford State Park

Dear Editor:
Thieves stole 26 state flags as they were displayed on the dam of Farlington Lake in Crawford State Park. The theft occurred early Monday morning on September 1, Labor Day. The poles were damaged beyond repair.
The flags were purchased and displayed by the Friends of Crawford State Park several years ago. The Friends group is a volunteer organization which raises money to enhance programming and facilities in the park. Volunteers also donate their time to put up the flags and maintain them. The Flags are lent to other organizations on occasion.
The public suffers when thefts like this occur. Crawford State park is part of the commonwealth for all to enjoy. The flags represent the heritage of our nation. Children and adults alike learn to respect these symbols of our great history. When they are displayed, we can come to appreciate our greater community.
In good faith, these flags are displayed. Sadly, some disrespect the values most of us share.
If anyone has any information that could help us recover these flags, please call the park office at 620-362-3171.  
Margaret Hoyle
Friends of Crawford State Park