Everything in a Vietnam Vet's House Burned Down...Except His American Flag

2015-06-04T17:05:06-04:00

Originally posted on wtoc.com:
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EDEN, GA (WTOC) - A veteran has completely lost his home off Wildwood Lane in Eden after a fire destroyed it only a week ago.

Charlie Hatritch watched his home go up in flames after coming back from a trip to the grocery store, every single belonging was ravaged by the heat and smoke except for his American flag.

Firefighters with the Effingham Fire Department and Meldrim Fire Department were able to remove it from where it hung in front of the home and hand it to Hatritch.

Little did that firefighter know that handing Hatritch that flag meant a lot since he was a veteran in the Vietnam War, serving as a marine.

Hatritch is trying to remain optimistic and many people in his neighborhood have come out to help him clean up and donate personal items.

Hatritch is currently staying with his son Dillon who lives right down the street.

The cause of the fire is unknown at this point, the family does believe it was electrical in nature.

http://www.wtoc.com/story/29201548/veteran-loses-home-to-fire-american-flag-salvaged-by-firefighter

Response by CPT Bruce Rodgers made Jun 4 at 2015 5:06 PM

2015-06-04T17:06:26-04:00

How can we help a brother in need?

Response by CPT Ahmed Faried made Jun 4 at 2015 5:12 PM

2015-06-04T17:12:36-04:00

ya damn right!

Response by PO1 John Miller made Jun 5 at 2015 12:07 AM

2015-06-05T00:07:54-04:00

Murica. To all those who say, "It's just a flag" or "It's just a piece of cloth" you are wrong on so many levels.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 25 at 2015 11:17 AM

2015-10-25T11:17:58-04:00

The veterans of the Vietnam War are the second greatest generation. I salute all who serve, past and present!!