Note: This story, originally reported in July 2018, is being republished.
A veteran of the United States Air Force shared a video on Facebook Live recounting a strange encounter with an unidentified neighbor.
Justin Schroeder, 36, arrived home after errands to find a note on his front door. “I don’t even know where to begin,” he said in the Facebook Live stream. “I’ve encountered some foolish individuals in my life, but this is beyond belief.”
He proceeded to read the note: “Dear neighbor, I am appalled that you would display this symbol of hate.”
Schroeder then directed his camera toward the American flag outside his home.
“Based on the vehicles in your driveway, I can only assume you voted for Trump,” he read, showing the parked vehicles to viewers.
“This is an appalling household, and Bozeman deserves better,” Schroeder continued, then retorted, “You’re right – it does. Pack your belongings and leave.”
The note threatened, “If not removed by tonight, I will do it myself. This is not a confrontation you want. We will prevail. Sincerely, your neighbor.”
Schroeder crumpled the note and discarded it. He responded, “I’ve encountered some incredibly foolish people in my life, but I can assure you, that flag right there? That flag isn’t going anywhere.”
He stepped onto the street, realizing he was the only one in his neighborhood displaying an American flag.
“I just don’t understand. This flag represents freedom,” he remarked.
“This flag flies year-round at my home,” he stated firmly. “It will remain there.”
He added, “And to the individual who thinks they’ll try to remove it? I’ll ensure you regret it.”
The video garnered over 700,000 views and 19,000 shares.
In an interview with Blue Lives Matter, Schroeder expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support he received, including a stranger who delivered a new flag in case the neighbor took down the original.
Several people offered to stand guard outside his home to protect him and the flag, while others advised him to involve the authorities.
“There’s no need to involve law enforcement. They have more pressing matters,” he replied.
Despite receiving death threats and negative remarks, Schroeder remained undeterred. “It doesn’t bother me. Someone got upset… If I were them, I’d be hiding,” he shrugged.
“The solution is simple. I raised the flag ten feet higher. Someone will notice if someone walks down the street with a ladder,” he explained. He also installed concealed security cameras, but no suspicious activity was recorded.
“Everyone is entitled to their freedom of speech, but this crosses a line. The American flag, to me, symbolizes love. And I love my country,” Schroeder concluded.
WATCH THE VIDEO BELOW:
Sources: Police Tribune / Image Credit: ViralHog
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