LAGUNA NIGUEL : Students Show True Colors, Form Flag

It was a day of patriotism and pride at Crown Valley Elementary School on Friday as nearly 1,300 students paid tribute to U.S. troops in the Persian Gulf by forming a U.S flag.

Students wearing red, white, and blue clothing filed behind one another until about 20 long rows of human bodies were formed. Then, holding pieces of construction paper, the youngsters lifted up their arms to the applause of parents and teachers.

The final formation looked more like a collage of colors than a flag, but organizers called the attempt a success.

“It was wonderful” said Devon Isherwood, the school’s principal. “The kids wanted to do it. They were very excited.”

The event was part of the school’s “Support Our Troops Day” that featured flag waving, pledges of allegiance , and praise for military personnel in the Gulf.

“If you really are proud to be in the United States of America, then let me hear you scream,” said Tom Hernandez, a visitor who led the school in a series of songs while strumming a guitar.

Melissa Hernandez, a third-grade teacher who organized the event, said the event started off with red-white-and-blue day at the school, when students wore clothing of those colors in honor of the U.S. flag.

February is traditionally set aside for students to learn about patriotism and their country, teachers said. The human flag helped reinforce those ideals.

“I thought it would be fun,” Hernandez said. “We’re learning about supporting our troops and about the United States.”

Some parents took time out of their day to attend the event and express their support. Several carried video cameras.

“It was great,” said Carol Opitz, whose 7-year-old daughter, Jennifer, participated in the celebration. “Very patriotic,” she said, adding that she opposes the idea of war, but supports the troops.

Students enjoyed the festivities as well.

Ravin Dawson, 9, said the event held special meaning for her. “It was great because I had a brother go to Saudi Arabia,” said the third-grader. “He was young, only 19.”

Chris Hobe, 12, said the day’s theme taught him something new.

“I learned to support our country,” he said, “and to be proud I’m an American.”