The Fourth of July: a time for celebration and reflection

The Fourth of July is a time for celebration and reflection. We celebrate our freedom and reflect on the sacrifices made in the name of freedom. No symbol encapsulates the strength of our nation, quite like the flag. And every Fourth, a few local WVCA members come together to raise the great flag in West Terre Haute.

Every year Misco Crane Services, a family-owned and operated business, plays host to the flag, purchased from Earl C. Rodgers and Associates. The flag sits proudly atop a 1966 Lima 500 T crane 156’ in the air behind the Vigo County Courthouse. When Misco owner, Steve Durham, began his work, the 66’ Lima was the biggest he owned.
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“The business and fleet have come a long way since then,” explained Steve. “When we started, our cranes used to be 50 tons. Now, we have a 300 ton.”

A crane with that much sentimental value and size was befitting of our great flag.

“The Misco Flag is visible to anybody crossing the river,” said Linda Shaw of Earl C. Rodgers and Associates. “It always makes me feel good to see it out there. It speaks of patriotism and the west side.”

Linda and her son, Michael Shaw, began selling American flags to accompany their flagpole sales several years ago. And each flag sold, comes with a story.

“We’ve learned from selling flags, getting to meet the veterans and patriots and hear their stories, you realize what the flag actually means to them,” explained Michael. “To the men and women who have served under it, you realize it is more than a piece of fabric. It really is something special, something to be revered.”

Linda and Michael feel honored to work with Misco Enterprises and provide their community with a lasting symbol of freedom and unity.
“Many people look forward to seeing it every day as it represents our country,” said Steve.
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“We’re just really proud to see it,” said Michael. “There’s a lot of great things happening on the west side of the river.”