A spirited debate is unfolding across the nation regarding the display of large American flags, particularly those flown outside Camping World stores. The company’s CEO, Marcus Lemonis, has made it clear that he intends to stand firm in the face of legal challenges.
“This flag is here to stay. We’ve faced attempts to remove it in three different cities over the past few years, each time with threats of jail time and various fines,” Lemonis stated during a recent appearance on a popular morning show.
Camping World, a leading retailer in the RV industry with more than 200 locations nationwide, is currently facing multiple lawsuits from cities concerned about the size of the flags they display at their businesses.
In Greenville, North Carolina, city leaders voted last week to pursue legal action regarding the flag at the local Camping World dealership, following a similar lawsuit from Sevierville, Tennessee, just days earlier. Lemonis expressed his surprise, noting that they have proudly flown these flags for 20 years without issue in both states.
The Greenville flag, measuring in at an impressive 3,200 square feet—almost the size of a basketball court—is raised on a pole approximately 130 feet high, which exceeds the city’s current legal height limitation almost twice over.
In Sevierville, officials emphasize their concerns are more about the height of the flagpole rather than the size of the American flag itself. In a statement, city officials reassured residents, “We are not against patriotism; rather, we want to ensure that excessively tall structures do not create distractions for drivers or pose safety risks.”
In Greenville, Communications Manager Brock Letchworth issued a statement about the city’s legal action, clarifying: “This has never been about removing an American flag or questioning the type of flag. This issue stems from the need to comply with City Code. We hope to reach an agreement that allows for the flag’s continued display while still adhering to local laws.”
Despite these pressures, Lemonis is adamant about his commitment to maintaining the American flag displays. He views them as a symbol of gratitude to a nation that welcomed him after he emigrated from Beirut, Lebanon.
“I wasn’t born here; I had to leave my country and start anew in the U.S. This country offered me the chance to realize the American dream. I have poured everything into building this business and providing jobs for my fellow Americans. The flag is my expression of thanks for the opportunities I’ve received,” he explained.
Lemonis further expressed his intention to increase the number of flags he flies, aiming for a cumulative total of one million square feet of American flags. “In my view, the flag itself is not an issue. It has received FAA clearance, and it seems like the city is trying to exert control over the situation.”
This ongoing dispute about the display of American flags poses questions about local governance and the balance between patriotism and city regulations. Lemonis’ steadfast stance opens a dialogue about the importance of national symbols and the lengths some companies will go to honor their country. It also highlights the sentiments of many Americans who view such displays as representative of their identity and values.
As these legal battles unfold, they raise broader questions about patriotism in public spaces and the right to display national symbols. As for Lemonis and Camping World, they remain determined that their flags are a strong declaration of pride and allegiance to the ideals that define America.
