CBS Atlanta 46Thieves steal fallen soldier's military medals

Carroll County sheriff's deputies are searching for whoever broke into a Villa Rica home and stole $10,000 worth of items, including sentimental military decorations belonging to the family's son who was killed in Iraq.

A burglar or burglars forced their way into the home of Cindy Hardegree off of Highway 101 last week. They took a 52" flat screen television, other electronics and a jewelry box.

"I've always said my biggest fear is that this house would burn and I would lose everything that was left of him," said Cindy Hardegree. "This is the next worst thing." 

Sgt. Michael Hardegree and six other soldiers were killed when their vehicle rolled over in September 2007 during Operation Iraqi Freedom.

"It's a treasure that you couldn't put a money amount on, and that makes it even more tragic," said Carroll County Sheriff Terry Langley. "We're leaving no stone unturned."

A teacher, Cindy Hardegree said she returned home from school late one afternoon and found the back door had been forced open. 

The items in the stolen jewelry box include a golden star given to the family after Michael Hardegree's death.

"It was put on this locket and pictures of Mike were inside, and Mike's initials were on the back and it's gone," said Cindy Hardegree.  "It's a one of a kind piece."

Investigators are checking with local pawn shops to see if the stolen items were sold. They are asking anyone with information about the case to call the sheriff's office.

"Those things are worthless to anybody else, but they were priceless to me," said Cindy Hardegree. "They're all I have left of my son."

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