“Raising the Flag, Raising Pride – The De La Salle Flag Crew”

Every morning at De La Salle, before most students even arrive on campus, the American flag unfurls above the Hofmann Center — steady, proud, and waving in the morning light. For the five members of the De La Salle Flag Crew, that daily ritual is more than a routine. It’s a symbol of community, tradition, and quiet leadership.

“It started for me back in middle school,” said Calvin Macariola, who leads the crew. “I went to a Public Safety Academy — kind of like a police academy — and every morning, we’d have a cadet crew raise the flag. I loved that sense of purpose and tradition. When I came to De La Salle, I met Luke Hanley, who was doing it here. He introduced me to the process, and when he graduated, he told me, ‘Calvin, you’ve got to take on these responsibilities.’ So I did. And now we’ve got a little flag community of our own.”

That “little community” now includes Calvin, Milo Cannon, Luke Chang, David Hanley, and Michael Macri — five students who have turned a simple act into something meaningful. Each day begins with the same reverent steps: the flag is carried in a cross position, unfolded, attached carefully to the rope, and raised to full or half-mast depending on national orders or solemn observances. “It’s really important to us that the flag never touches the ground,” Calvin said. “That’s part of the respect.”

The team’s attention to detail extends beyond daily ceremony. “When it rains, we use the waterproof flag,” Calvin added. “It’s smaller and more durable. We want to make sure the flag is always cared for properly.”

For Milo Cannon, that care is personal. “The flag is a symbol of America — it’s revered,” he said. “I’ve seen ceremonies where old flags are retired and burned, and it really shows how much respect people have for it. So when we raise or lower it each day, we do it with that same respect. It feels almost sacred.”

Behind the scenes, teamwork keeps everything running smoothly. “We have a group chat,” Milo explained. “If Calvin can’t put it up in the morning, I’ll do it. Or if one of us sees it hasn’t come down yet, we take care of it. It’s just about having each other’s backs.”

And while most students pass by without a second thought, the crew hopes their consistency sends a quiet message. “I hope people notice that we still do it,” said Luke Chang. “That it’s something that matters.”

Calvin agreed. “I really hope it inspires other students to join us. When I started, it was just one guy. Now it’s five. It’s taught us communication, teamwork, and pride. And honestly, when I see that flag flying high — especially on windy days — it feels like a sign of hope. Just like in the anthem, ‘our flag was still there.’ It reminds us that we’re still here too, strong and proud.”

At De La Salle, the Flag Crew’s daily act might go unnoticed by many — but for those who stop to look up, it’s a small yet powerful reminder of unity, resilience, and respect.