Seven exceptional students from Manado Independent School (MIS) have brought immense honor to their school and region by serving as Flag-Hoisting Troops during the red-and-white flag ceremony for North Minahasa Regency and North Sulawesi Province. This prestigious event commemorated the 79th anniversary of the Republic of Indonesia’s Independence Day on Saturday, August 17, 2024.
The seven selected students, all high schoolers from MIS, demonstrated their dedication and hard work through their outstanding performance. Matthew Rambing, a member of the afternoon flag-lowering team at the provincial level, was the central flag bearer. At the regency level, Robben Mangindaan led flag-raising team 8, while Bagus Baskara commanded the same team. Amelia Katuuk served as the reserve flag bearer, and Samuel Pasaribu, Daniel Besouw, and Cleandra Kaawoan also played crucial roles.
Robben Mangindaan, a MIS student chosen for the North Minahasa Regency, expressed his pride and gratitude for the opportunity. “Being part of the regency’s Flag-Hoisting Troops team is a great honor,” he said. “My main motivation was to make my parents proud and to experience the thrill of hoisting the flag.” He also emphasized the importance of teamwork and mutual support, learned through rigorous training. “I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to my parents for their constant prayers and support; the high school administrators who granted permission and trusted me to participate in this event; and to the trainers from North Minahasa, Indonesian National Army (TNI) and Indonesian National Police (POLRI) who guided and entrusted me with the role of team leader 8,” Robben said with great enthusiasm.
Matthew Rambing, a MIS student selected for the North Sulawesi provincial team, shared his journey and the challenges he faced during the selection process. He expressed his gratitude to MIS and his family for their unwavering support and guidance. The achievements of these seven students are a testament to their dedication and the positive impact of MIS on their lives. Their participation in the Flag-Hoisting Troops not only brought honor to their school but also instilled in them valuable life lessons and a sense of patriotism.
