Ecstatic fans. Hopeful parents. Hungry players.

The school spirit held between two gigantic rivals was as crazy as any Big Ten school, but the scene left behind made senior Mark Zubeck stop in his tracks.

“This was extremely disrespectful, to our country and the men and women who fought and still fight for our freedom. Coming from a family with a military background, I had to at least attempt to defend their honor,” Zubeck said.

The following Monday, Zubeck wrote a heartfelt letter to principal Nanette Chesney in regards to his discovery. He was very disappointed to see dozens of American flags scattered around the bleachers after the game. The flag is a symbol of freedom and is something that people are not always aware of.

“When I was reading his letter, I thought ‘wow’ this might be a cool thing that we could sort of have a film on flag etiquette because most people don’t know,” Chesney said.

Most Americans know the symbolism of the flag, but in heat of the moment situations, like at the game, it’s hard to remember that it isn’t appropriate to have the flag touch the ground, let alone have multiple ones lying on the ground. Chesney thought it would be a good idea for Zubeck to create a video that is not only informative but also entertaining to show students around Veteran’s Day.