Cadets honored with flag detail at the Virginia game
Cadets Eleanor Saunier and Marren Otani were chosen to receive the flags at the Virginia game.
The passing of the flags during the pre-game ceremonies was a continuation of the proud partnership between the Virginia Tech Corps of Cadets and Virginia Tech football to highlight the colors at every football game.
Three football players, chosen because of their performance in the last game or at practice, carry the American flag, the state flag, and the team’s spirit flag and lead the team onto the field. They deliver the flags to cadets at the south end of the field. The cadets, also selected based on their performance in the corps, render honor to the flags and carry them off the field. At home games three first-year cadets are selected, and one or two cadets travel with the team and receive the flags at away games.
Saunier, an international studies major in the College of Liberal Arts and Human Sciences and a member of Air Force ROTC, stands out for her initiative and leadership. She leads her fire team with confidence and care and plays a key role in sophomore integration ensuring her classmates feel supported and engaged. Saunier, from Charlottesville, also organizes weekly class-based training, consistently supporting her peers with professionalism and positivity.
Otani, from Virginia Beach, sets the standard for discipline and reliability among her peers. A history major in the College of Liberal Arts and Human Sciences and a member of the corps’ Citizen-Leader Track, her focus at training each morning reflects not just discipline, but respect for the team and the mission of the corps. Academically strong and a steady presence in the company, Otani exemplifies servant leadership through integrity, support for her fellow cadets, and morale-building.
