HAILEY, Idaho (AP) — The small Idaho hometown of released captive Sgt. Bowe Bergdahl has canceled plans for a celebration later this month, citing security concerns after the town was inundated with negative emails and angry phone calls.

Organizers released a statement Wednesday saying that because of national media attention on Bergdahl’s story, they expect a significant increase in the number of people planning to attend the event — some to protest, and others to support the Bergdahl family. The organizers said that the town, with just 8,000 people, doesn’t have the infrastructure to support a big event.

Large events are not uncommon in the region. In nearby Ketchum, just 12 miles to the north, about 32,000 people attend the town’s Wagon Days celebration each year.

Hailey Police Chief Jeff Gunter said the event has been misrepresented in the national media, leading people to think it’s some sort of hero’s welcome. More here.

Did the town make the right call in cancelling the celebration?

 

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