Ferndale Man Promotes Patriotism With Big Flag Display

FERNDALE (WWJ) - In celebration of Independence Day, one local man is promoting the American flag in a big, big way.

The 4th of July might as well be the Super Bowl for Ferndale artist Eric Mesko — and, for years, the ex-Marine has been doing his part to help people celebrate the day.

"Of all the images that we have of our country: the Statue of Liberty, Washington's face ... the flag is the one that's universal," he told WWJ's Charlie Langton.

Mesko, an art teacher, celebrates by hanging 13 9 by 5-foot American flags around his home.  He also painted hundreds of flags over the years that have been displayed all over the city.

Mesko says he wants to promote patriotism.

"I think I do it (celebrate) better than Detroit does it, because I put my flags out on the 4th of July. We don't even do our fireworks on the 4th of July anymore," he said.

Mesko said the public is welcome to drive by his home to check out the display.

His address is 509 Laprairie St. That's in the area of 9 Mile Road and Woodward Ave. in Ferndale.