The giant American flag mural being painted on the Marietta Ambulance Building on Pike Street is a beautiful addition to the Marietta cityscape.
New York Artist Scott LoBaido is painting the mural in honor of U.S. Army SPC Kyle Hockenberry and as a lasting tribute to all veterans.
LoBaido has painted flag murals in all 50 states and painted the world's largest flag, a 3.5-acre painting on the roof of a Texas building.
His latest work can be seen at 119 Pike St. The mural was expected to be finished sometime today.
It's also hoped the mural will remind local residents of efforts to raise money to build a new "smart" home for Hockenberry, who lost both legs and an arm while serving in Afghanistan last June. Local service clubs and individuals have been busy raising money, and a concert set for Thursday at 7 p.m. at the Dyson Baudo Recreation Center on the Marietta College campus is another way for members of the general public to contribute to the cause. Tickets to the Lt. Dan Band will be sold at the door. The band features actor Gary Sinise whose foundation helps build homes for wounded veterans.
We encourage everyone to support the Kyle Hockenberry fundraisers and we know the beautiful Pike Street mural will continue to remind all of us of the sacrifices made by Hockenberry and all veterans.
