Paloma Valley to Display 'Big Flag' at Sept. 11 Game

Paloma Valley High School will present a special display of patriotism prior to its home football game on Sept. 11 -- the 14th anniversary...

Paloma Valley High School will present a special display of patriotism prior to its home football game on Sept. 11 -- the 14th anniversary of the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center and two other sites.

Prior to the 7 p.m. kickoff of its game against King High School of Riverside in Wildcat Stadium, members of the school's NJROTC Battalion and other volunteers will surround the field, holding what has become known as the Big Flag -- a giant American flag that covers the entire field. The Big Flag is unfurled every year at the Holiday Bowl college football game in San Diego and has been displayed at Super Bowls, World Series and other major events, but this will be only the second time it is displayed at a high school event.

According to the Holiday Bowl website, the Big Flag measures 100 by 50 yards (45,000 square feet). It covers an entire football field and most of the outfield when presented at baseball games. It is made of lightweight nylon and weighs approximately 850 pounds.

The Big Flag is used only under the strictest of guidelines, according to the website. A minimum of 250 people is required for the presentation, and the event producer will work closely with school staff to ensure the presentation ceremony conforms to all event requirements.

How did Paloma Valley arrange for this rare honor? Principal Don Williamson gives all the credit to Master Sgt. Frank Puebla, who is in charge of the school's NJROTC Battalion.

"My Master Sergeant is amazing," Williamson said. "He was able to get it all set up."

As part of its 9/11 memorial pregame ceremony, Paloma Valley will honor military personnel and veterans. For ticket information, call the high school at 951-943-6369.

(Photo of the Big Flag courtesy of sandiegobowlgames.com)


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