In an effort to proudly support our local military, the Bent Tree Homeowners Association recently placed 200 flags throughout the neighborhood.

Today, however, 75 flags are missing from the Bent Tree neighborhood.

Residents say they don't know who could've taken them, but they say they hope that person or persons realize the impact it's made on area veterans.

On September 30 in Lexington's Rupp Arena, mom Debbie Robinson was reunited with sons Newton and Hunter.

"My two sons and over 200 guys in this area came back in the fall last year. This is our first 4th of July to celebrate freedoms together since 2006," says Debbie.

That's why Debbie wanted to do something special this year in her Bent Tree neighborhood.

"We put out over 240 flags in our neighborhood. Every home got a flag in their front yard," Debbie explains. "Sometime between late last night and this morning, we had approximately 75 of them gone. Military veterans that have served in wars clear back to World War II live in this neighborhood. It's just kind of a slap in their face."

"Those of us who have served our country, that's the reason why we did it partially, so they'd have the right to do that kind of thing and it's too bad," adds local war veteran Jack Sagabiel.

"I'm sure those people have profited from being American and being here in Kentucky in our great town," says another local war veteran, Bart Hagerman. "I can't imagine anyone doing it. I have no word for it."

"All we're asking for is one day a year," says Jack. "I hope that's not too much to ask for."

Despite the theft, Debbie's still planning to make the most of the 4th of July holiday with her sons, and today, she only has one thing to say.

"Happy 4th of July," she says.

Debbie adds she has reported the theft to the police and the Bent Tree neighborhood will be under extra patrol tonight.