The American flag stickers have returned to the lockers -- all of them now -- in an Illinois firehouse.
And, the four Maywood firefighters suspended for standing up for the red, white and blue are back on duty.
Chief Craig Bronaugh told CBS reporters that he reconsidered his order that all decals be removed from lockers and helmets.
“After review, I made a decision to put department issued flags on every locker and in every locker room,” he said.
His order -- on the eve of the 9/11 anniversary -- didn't sit well at all.
“I do feel offended. I do feel upset, and I do feel hurt,” firefighter Jesus Aguire, a veteran, told reporters.
“So people might think it’s just a sticker. But to me, it’s more than a sticker. This is what I fought for and what a lot of other soldiers – thousands of soldiers, fighting for this country,” he added.
The Village of Maywood issued a statement saying neither they nor the chief is unpatriotic.
Acting Village Manager David Myers wrote: "...Village firefighters will be allowed to continue to wear American Flag patches and decals on their uniforms and helmets.
The Village of Maywood, its’ appointed and elected officials, and staff support all military personnel, all veterans, and all public safety employees, including fire fighting personnel. The Village recognizes the employees’ right to honor America and its Flag.."
David Myers
Acting Village Manager
