MAMS, Calhoun Partner to Install Flag Field of Honor

Merrick Avenue Middle School partnered with Calhoun High School on Nov. 7 for its annual Flag Field of Honor, raising thousands of dollars to benefit Honor Flight Long Island and the Tunnel to Towers Foundation. 

The initiative was first established by Calhoun junior Calleigh Mack in 2020 at Chatterton Elementary School, where the Flag Field of Honor remained on display for two years. The Mack family has continued the tradition over the past five years at Merrick Avenue Middle School, working closely with the school community to grow the meaningful tribute. 

Hundreds of American flags lined the front lawn of Merrick Avenue Middle School as students, teachers, veterans, local leaders and families gathered to recognize and honor those who have served our country. While Merrick Avenue Middle School led the event's organization, Calhoun High School supported the initiative through a parallel fundraising campaign. Proceeds will be shared between the Tunnel to Towers Foundation and Honor Flight Long Island. 

Merrick Avenue and Calhoun student volunteers, along with local families, including the Gubba family, helped make the event possible. Special thanks go to the staff, families, veterans and custodial team members who assisted with the early Saturday morning flag installation and contributed to the success of this community-wide tribute. 

The flags will remain on display along the Merrick Avenue Middle School front lawn through the first week of December, providing the community with an opportunity to pause, reflect and honor the brave men and women who have served our nation.