PEMBROKE PINES (CBS4) – A Pembroke Pines man is recovering from gunshot wounds after he was attacked while cleaning his yard of Tropical Storm Isaac debris.

Police say Nicholas Dragone was in his front yard trimming a fallen tree when he was approached by a two men who demanded he hand over the gold chain around his neck.

Dragone, a Vietnam War veteran, refused to give it up, telling CBS4′s Joan Murray that it was a present from his wife. He even swung his tree clippers at the suspects in an effort to defend himself.

The suspects opened fire on Dragone, who was struck in the stomach.

The suspects fled from the scene without the chain, and Dragone was able to call 911.

Dragone was transported to the hospital for treatment and was released later in the evening.

Anyone with information about the suspects is urged to call Broward County Crime Stoppers at (954) 493-TIPS.