A Russian American Company Flag

Salute

This flag salute was read by the Environmental Living Program class of Louise Menezes of Pleasant Valley School in Novato. The militia brought everyone to the flag pole. They had red sashes and stood at attention. Three militia were at the flagpole ready to raise the class flag. Four students each read one of these lines. For the Fort Ross Staff and the parents this was a very touching moment.

1. Nearly 188 years ago a brave group of Russians and Aleuts arrived here and began construction of this fort.

2. The highest point in their new fort was the flagpole and from it flew their flag letting all who might see it know that this was their fort and they were ready to defend it against all enemies and intruders.

3. We are honored to raise our flag in the same place with the same sense of pride that the founders of this fort must have felt.

4. Today, we the students and parents of Pleasant Valley School take our place behind these brave explorers and hunters.

As the militia lowered the flag, they once again took their places. There was an aire of sadness as the group was ready to depart Colony Ross, a place where these students took ownership in their hearts and minds. Again, a very touching moment. 

1. Before we lower the Pleasant Valley flag that has flown over the fort the past day, we would like to thank all the parents who helped in our adventure.

2. And a very special thank you to Ms. Natalie Ivanov (also known as our fearless leader Ms. Menezes) for her energy and dedication to this great program.

3. For those gathered here, please stand at attention and be silent during the lowering of the flag. Militia lower the flag.

4. The lowering of our flag signifies the end of our time at Fort Ross. may our memories of our time here live on forever. At the count of 3, let's say good bye in Russian. 1 -2 -3 Dah-svidah-niyh!