American flag is the only thing to survive California wildfire that destroyed this entire neighborhood

The death toll in California continues to climb as the wildfires tearing through multiple parts of the state destroy entire neighborhoods. But one group of officers patrolling a decimated street in Butte County found hope in what had survived in the flames — an American flag.

Photos shared on the Elk Grove Police Department’s social media pages show a flagpole with an American flag still flying in the debris on Ripley Lane in Paradise, Calif. People are in disbelief about the miracle and suggested the police department take the flag and use it to memorialize those who lost their lives in the fire.

“The flag is secure at our police department. As for the memorializing it, we will leave that up to the owner of the flag and the community up there,” Elk Grove officers tell Yahoo Lifestyle.

Although they were successful in securing the flag, it turns out that the police department wasn’t the first to discover it. Local news anchor Spencer Joseph took to his own Facebook page to share a photo of the flag during daylight on Saturday, calling it one of the “most stunning photos” he’s ever taken.

An American flag was the only thing to survive wildfire in this California neighborhood. (Photo: Elk Grove Police Department)
An American flag was the only thing to survive wildfire in this California neighborhood. (Photo: Elk Grove Police Department)

Joseph’s followers responded to seeing the photo, saying that it represents America’s strength during these difficult times.

“Together we are stronger,” one person wrote. “Residents and First Responders you are in my thoughts and prayers. Stay safe.”

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