ORANGE PARK — Employees at Camping World RV Sales watched on Friday, Nov. 21, as Honor Guards took almost 10 minutes to raise a large American flag above Blanding Boulevard.
With help from both the Clay County and Jacksonville sheriff’s offices during the ceremony, the roughly $130,000 flag now stands at 40 x 80 feet, while its pole stands tall at 130 feet.
It was a long time in the making. In recent months, the national company has been caught in a bit of controversy for its high-flying flags.
The company is known for proudly displaying its flags at all 200 of its locations. It stems from CEO Marcus Lemonis’ history as a Lebanese immigrant and his pride in the U.S. The company said, “It’s a dedication to those who have served our country and a reminder that because of their sacrifice, the American Dream is alive and well.”
In recent months, however, some locations have faced lawsuits and fines due to the flag’s large size. According to the company’s website, the flag is almost the size of a basketball court, while the pole is taller than the Statue of Liberty.
But, although some had a more challenging time getting and keeping their flags up, the Orange Park location said the process wasn’t as complicated for them. But it still had its hurdles.
“It’s a big deal for us. We are super happy to be a part of this community. A part of America,” said the store’s general manager Joseph Dolgach during the ceremony. “It’s a long overdue wait for us.”
The wait is over. And now, the American dream can be seen for miles.