The “Flag and Banner” company has announced it will donate a fresh new American flag to North Carolina’s Frying Pan Tower after thousands witnessed the former Old Glory get torn to shreds by Hurricane Florence in a viral Explore.org live stream on Thursday.
A live camera positioned on top of the Frying Pan, which is now privately owned by a man from Charleston, NC, caught the incoming Hurricane as it barreled towards the U.S. mainland. The huge, swirling waves and gale-force winds attracted thousands of viewers, but it was one element of the picture that had people fixed to the live feed: an American flag waving in the ever-stiffening winds.
Company to donate American Flag to Frying Pan after Hurricane Florence batters Old Gloryhttps://t.co/mZTvOZYo0e pic.twitter.com/XEzmsVFqYy
— NBC Charlotte (@wcnc) September 14, 2018
Eventually, the flag was ripped near the bottom, demonstrating the astonishingly strong winds that were being generated by the hurricane.
Unfortunately, as the flag continued to fight for survival, the light faded, and we were all left with a sense of unease as the screaming of the wind continued to batter the camera’s microphone. Fast-forward to this morning, and we were all fooled by a “highlights” reel screened by the guys at Explore.org. The scene? Beautiful. Calm, glassy seas, a glowing sunrise and a distinctly intact Stars and Stripes (see below).
“With respect, we will retire and replace it next trip. We see the tears and know that good men and women fought for America and are honored to fly old glory,” said Richard Neal, owner of the tower, which is located 39 miles Southeast of Southport, North Carolina, according to NBC Charlotte.
He added: “Many many thanks for FLAG sponsor https://www.