America 250 | Old Glory: Long may she wave
A lasting symbol of freedom, democracy and unity will stand tall in Cape Coral, thanks to community support of the Raise the Flag fundraising campaign.
The public is invited to attend a ceremony that will officially Raise the Flag, atop a state-record 250-foot flagpole, on America’s 250th birthday.
The ceremony is scheduled for 2 p.m. Saturday, July 4, at Bernice Braden Park, 2051 Cape Coral Parkway. There are no reservations required to attend the flag being raised for the first time in a celebration of the public support received.
“When I understood I had the privilege to be the city manager as America celebrates 250 years, I thought, ‘We need to celebrate big.’ I remembered seeing a colossal flag while serving in the U.S. Navy that really stuck with me. That experience made me want to do something special here in Cape Coral. This isn’t just about a flagpole — it’s about showing how much we care about our country, our freedoms, and each other. It’s up to all of us to unify and get it done for our country and Southwest Florida,” City Manager Michael Ilczyczyn said.
City spokesperson Kaityln Mullen said the “Raise the Flag” project stemmed from Ilczyczyn’s idea to create a major patriotic landmark to commemorate America’s 250th birthday.
“This community-funded initiative will build the tallest freestanding American flagpole in Florida at Bernice Braden Park. Standing 250 feet tall, the flag will serve as a powerful symbol of freedom, democracy, and unity,” she said.
Construction for the new flagpole at Bernice Braden Park began June 1 and the construction is anticipated to be completed by Friday, July 3.
The tallest freestanding American flagpole in Florida not only celebrates America’s 250th birthday, but will serve as a “point of civic pride and a tribute to the values represented by the American flag.”
Cape Coral City Council approved the project with the caveat that it be entirely funded through private donations.
“According to the fundraising page on GiveButter, $310,628 has been raised toward a $500,000 goal. The city continues to accept donations,” Mullen said.
As of June 10, there had been 208 supporters that have helped the fundraiser meet 62% of its goal. The donations have ranged from $1 to $150,000, with some writing messages in support of the flag, and others making a donation in honor of someone.
“As a longtime business owner in Cape Coral, this was an easy decision,” said Zak Kearns, president of The Kearns Group. “I am proud to contribute to a project that celebrates both our community and the country we love. The opportunity to help build what will become the largest American flagpole in the State of Florida, especially as our nation commemorates its 250th anniversary, is incredibly meaningful.”
He said Cape Coral has given so much to his family, business, and employees over the years.
“This donation is a way to give back while honoring the values, freedoms, and opportunities that make America the greatest country in the world. I hope this flag serves as a lasting symbol of patriotism, unity, and pride for generations to come,” Kearns said.
There were countless other business owners who donated to the cause.
“My father, along with my cousin, and business partner Jim Aubuchon’s father, were both World War II veterans. We made the contribution to honor their service while also recognizing the Semiquincentennial anniversary of our nation. Having the largest American flag in Florida greeting visitors and residents as they enter our city will symbolize the strong patriotism of our community,” said Gary Aubuchon, president and CEO of Aubuchon Homes.
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