Unwavering patriotism of the flag man of Trinidad and Tobago
My Lifelong Encounter with the Flag Man
I still remember the first time I saw him, I was just a child, no more than eight years old. He was riding his bicycle down the street, the Trinidad and Tobago flag flowing behind him like a cape. He was dressed in a crisp red, white, and black outfit, matching the colours of the flag perfectly. His whistle pierced the air, announcing his arrival, and I couldn’t help but be drawn to him.
As I grew older, I began to notice him at every national event proudly waving the flag and spreading joy to all around him. I saw him at Independence Day celebrations, Carnival parades, and even at sporting events. He became a familiar face, a symbol of national pride and unity.
As I entered adulthood, I began to appreciate the flag man’s dedication even more. I realized that his presence wasn’t just about waving a flag, but about representing a sense of community and shared identity. He was a reminder that, despite our differences, we were all united under the same flag. I remember seeing him at a particularly pivotal moment in our nation’s history, standing tall and proud, even as the world around him seemed uncertain. In that moment, he embodied the spirit of resilience and hope that defines us as Trinbagonians.
I vividly remember the day I asked the flag man for a photo. It was during our Independence Day celebrations, and the streets were filled with vibrant colors and lively music. I was with my family, and we were all dressed in our national colors, enjoying the festivities. As we turned a corner, I saw him – the flag man – proudly waving the flag and blowing his whistle. I couldn’t resist the opportunity to meet him and ask for a photo. He smiled warmly, his eyes twinkling with delight. He wrapped the flag around us, and we stood side by side, beaming with pride. My family gathered around, taking photos and cheering us on. As we posed for the photo, I felt a sense of pride and connection to my country. The flag man’s enthusiasm was infectious, and I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the opportunity to share this moment with my childhood icon.
Years went by, and I found myself taking my own children to national events, pointing out the flag man to them, and telling them stories of his unwavering dedication. They would giggle with delight as he rode by, whistle blowing, flag waving. And then, very recently, I heard the news that the flag man had passed away. I felt a pang of sadness, knowing that I would never see him ride by again, never hear the sound of his whistle or see the flag flowing behind him.
But even in death, the flag man’s legacy lives on. He taught us the value of pride, dedication, and community. He reminded us that even the smallest acts can make a profound impact on those around us. As I look back on my life, I realize that the flag man was more than just a familiar face – he was a true icon, a symbol of the very best of Trinidad and Tobago.
As I reflect on the flag man’s legacy, I can’t help but feel a sense of hope and excitement for the future. While he may be gone, his spirit and dedication to our nation’s flag live on. I envision a new flag man emerging, someone who embodies the same passion and pride that he did. Perhaps a young person, inspired by his story, will take up the mantle and continue his work. I long to see someone else proudly waving the flag, blowing the whistle, and spreading joy to all around them. It’s time for a new generation to carry the torch, to keep the flag man’s legacy alive, and to inspire others to do the same. I dream of the day when I’ll see a new flag man riding by flag flowing behind him and know that the spirit of patriotism and unity will continue to thrive in our beloved Trinidad and Tobago.
Subrina Hall-Azih is an educator.
