Internationally famous artist Wyland completed the world’s largest painted American flag mural, an impressive 3.8-acres in size, on roof of Legendry Marina, the world’s largest single indoor marine building. The awe-inspiring 555’ x 229’ flag honors the United States military armed forces who defend our country and first responders who watch over and protect our communities.Ceremonies included the Eglin AFB honor guard presentation of the colors; the National Anthem sung by Sr. Airman 1st Class Christine David, one of thirty-seven Airmen selected to sing in the Tops in Blue global tour; invocation by Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office lead chaplain Larry Carter; God Bless America sung by hit TV show The Voice finalist, Geoff McBride; and a closing prayer to honor the military and first responders by Destiny Worship Center pastor, Steve Vaggalis. The master of ceremonies was retired firefighter and 2009 Florida Firefighter of the Year, Shayne Stewart. Keynote speakers also was renowned environmental artist Wyland, who will officially autograph the flag; Lt. Col. Christine Mau, the first female F-35 Air Force fighter pilot; and Bobby Dove, the military’s most wounded veteran to survive and now highly active with the Special Ops Wounded Warriors foundation. Guests can watch Wyland’s finishing touches to the painted flag in streaming live via a large jumbotron video screen at ground level.This monumental work of art is especially inspirational because of the major military presence in Northwest Florida. Particularly with Eglin Air Force Base, one of the largest bases in the world, located just across the Choctawhatchee Bay. When military, commercial and private planes fly over the area, the American flag on the Legendary Marina roof at the south end of the Mid Bay Bridge is not to be missed. Wyland and his Wyland Foundation, a non-profit public charity, are in the process of applying to the Guinness World Book of Records for the world’s largest mural of a flag distinction. The project is sponsored by Legendary Marine and Sherwin Williams.Legendary Marina is located at the foot of the Mid-Bay Bridge in Destin, Florida.
