19-year-old Army Soldier Austin Freni made a surprise trip home during the holidays, a trip that has resulted in a senseless act of violence. Freni was on his way home from the Mummers Parade in South Philly when he was attacked by a large gang.
Freni, his girlfriend, and mother were walking home when a group of 10 to 15 men began making derogatory comments towards Austin's Army jacket. An exchange took place and all three were assaulted by the group, leaving Austin in the hospital with severe facial injuries.
See the report from FOX 29: