Veterans at the Bridgeport Royal Canadian Legion in Richmond, B.C., are devastated after thieves stole 10 flags intended for Remembrance Day ceremonies.

The thieves appear to have broken in on Friday night, forcing their way into a locked storage container and taking the contents — a pair of ski bags containing approximately 10 flags and brass-coloured flag poles.

Two of the flags are labelled "Legion 291", while the other eight are Canadian flags.

Legion spokesperson Bob Miller said the theft has dampened the festivities and will limit the amount of patrons who will be out marching.

"We're rather proud to fly the colours on Remembrance Day and we can't do that now," said Miller.

"The patrons down here at the Legion are just devastated. They can't figure out why anyone would do this."

Legion regular Lora Jerominski was shocked when she heard about the flag theft.

"This is my home and my friends," said Jerominski.

"What do these people want with these things? What are you going to do with them?"

'Absolutely disgusting'

Fellow Legion patron Richard White was totally appalled by the theft, which he described as "absolutely disgusting."

"I can't believe anyone would do it, because it's so disrespectful," said White.

"We have to support Remembrance Day ... because these are the people that kept our country viable."

White said whoever took the flags should bring them back and feel sad they did something so stupid.

Legion spokesperson Bob Miller said the theft will limit the number of veterans who can take part in Remembrance Day ceremonies. (CBC)

Richmond RCMP Cpl. Stephanie Ashton is urging anyone with information to come forward and ensure the return of the flags.

“I hope that out of respect for the significance these flags hold, someone will come forward with information about the flags, so that we can get them back to the legion," said Ashton.

No suspects have been identified, police said.

Anyone with any information about the theft or whereabouts of the flags is asked to called Richmond RCMP at 604-278-1212 or to remain anonymous, contact Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online.