- "Well, sometimes, missteps lead you where you need to be."
- ―Rick Flag, Sr. to Ilana Rostovic[src]
General Richard Bill "Rick" Flag, Sr. is a decorated general in the United States Armed Forces, the father of the late Colonel Rick Flag, Jr., and the formerly appointed leader and field commander of the Creature Commandos. Flag lead them on their first assigned mission to protect Princess Ilana Rostovic from the villainous sorceress Circe and the Sons of Themyscira, while unexpectedly falling in love with Rostovic despite initially refusing her advances, dedicating himself to defending her after Amanda Waller sent the Commandos back to Pokolistan to assassinate Rostovic when the captured Circe predicted a cataclysmic future of Rostovic conquering the world which Waller believed as legitimate.
Striving to prove the vision shown to Waller was incorrect, Flag forged an unlikely tentative friendship with the temperamental Eric Frankenstein after resolving a misunderstanding, both promising to help each other for their respective loves. However, he ended up being severely injured in a confrontation with the shapeshifting Clayface and rushed to a hospital for urgent medical treatment for his horrific life threatening injuries, where he managed to warn Waller, unknowingly having been cruelly manipulated by the deceptive and power hungry Rostovic.
Biography[]
Military Career[]
Raising a Son[]
- "I joined the military mostly to make money so I could support him. Eighteen years late, he joined the military because he loved our country and he wanted to make it a better place."
- ―Rick Flag, Sr. to Ilana Rostovic[src]
When Flag and his wife were eighteen, they had a son named Rick Flag, Jr., and Flag joined the military to help provide for his family. Once Flag Jr. turned eighteen, he joined the military due to his love of America and desired to make it a better place.[1] While serving in the military, Flag Sr. was stabbed on a mission in the Persian Gulf, leaving his body heavily scarred.[2] Flag was also involved in a fight with a pilot in Jarhanpur.[5]
Losing His Son[]
- "Sorry. I didn't mean to intimate anything about your son, Flag. When he died in Corto Maltese, he died a hero."
- ―Amanda Waller to Rick Flag, Sr.[src]
During a Task Force X mission in the small island nation of Corto Maltese, team leader, Colonel Rick Flag, Jr., was killed by one of the teammates, the vigilante Peacemaker[1][6] His death left Flag deeply heartbroken, fostering a lasting bitterness towards Peacemaker for his son’s demise and causing his wife to divorce him, leaving Flag in a saddened state of depression and loneliness.[6]
Invasion of Pokolistan[]
Meeting the Creature Commandos[]
- "I thought Congress put a stop to all Task Force X activities since your daughter outed you."
"Technically, Congress said A.R.G.U.S. can't use incarcerated human beings as mission operatives any longer. But what about beings that aren't human?" - ―Rick Flag, Sr. and Amanda Waller[src]
Flag, Sr. and Amanda Waller watch Circe's attacks on Pokolistan on television
Two years later, Flag, Sr. and Amanda Waller watched a GBS News broadcast detailing an international incident in Pokolistan as Circe, who claimed to be the rightful heir to Themyscira's throne, sought to overthrow the Pokolistani royal family. Outraged by the reactionary actions of the Sons of Themyscira, Flag expressed his frustration. Waller emphasized the urgency of the situation, reminding Flag that Pokolistan, an ally of the United States, was vital due to its oil-based alliance and revealed that Princess Ilana Rostovic was already negotiating a deal with the United States as they headed to an elevator in Belle Reve Correctional Center.
Flag, Sr. claims to have believed that Congress halted Task Force X's activities
Upon reaching the elevator, Flag expressed confusion to Waller, noting that Congress had halted Task Force X's activities. However, Waller explained that Congress' regulations were limited to human activities, and upon entering the monitoring facility, Flag was shocked to see that non-human prisoners were being held there. Waller then introduced Flag to the non-human division of the prison, saying that for years only the highest levels of security were aware of their existence and that their non-human nature could bypass the congressional restrictions.
Flag, Sr. meets Task Force M
Waller proceeded to introduce Flag to the members, starting with the Bride. Flag asked about Doctor Phosphorus, so Waller explained that he had radiation powers which should have minimal effects. Flag asked what the effects would be, so Waller explained that it would sterilize him. Waller then explained that Weasel was one of the few survivors of the Corto Maltese mission, apologizing to Flag for reminding him of his son's death in the operation, lamenting his loss. When Flag pointed out G.I. Robot, Waller told him that the robot had killed over three hundred Nazis in World War II. Waller then introduces Nina Mazursky as the smartest of the team while they walked down the stairs to approach the members.
Flag, Sr. salutes Amanda Waller
As Waller opened the entrance to see the prisoners, Phosphorus, the Bride, and Weasel rushed to attack her, so Flag quickly pulled out her pistol. However, Waller used the Nano-Bomb Remote Detonator to electrocute them in order to stop them, also electrocuting G.I. Robot and Mazursky in the process. Handing her detonator to Flag, Waller told him that they were her new government black ops team named Task Force M, also known as Creature Commandos. As they walked out into the hallway, Waller told him that there was already an Osprey waiting to take him straight to the castle and protect Rostovic from Circe, with Flag giving a military salute in commitment.[1]
Arrival to Poko Castle[]
Flag, Sr. talks to the team
- "I know you all aren't exactly enthusiastic about this mission."
"General, I believe you've read us wrong. We're delighted to be here and delighted to serve our country." - ―Rick Flag, Sr. and Doctor Phosphorus[src]
Knowing of the trouble Weasel had caused on their last mission, Flag, Sr. tied him up with multiple belts so he would not escape. Upon takeoff, Flag tried to be understanding with the team, knowing they had no choice but to tag along, with Doctor Phosphorus sarcastically claiming to be excited about the mission. Weasel began to chirp and try to get free, leading G.I. Robot to believe him to be a Nazi. However, Flag stopped G.I. Robot, explaining that Weasel was not a Nazi. When Phosphorus mentioned that Weasel was a child killer, Flag told him that Weasel had supposedly had trouble traveling on the Sheba.
Flag, Sr. and the team arrive to Poko Castle
Upon landing, the team was greeted by guard Alexi, who took them in armored tanks to the castle. On the trip, Weasel started to cause a ruckus as he tried to break free, so Flag yelled at him to calm down, angrily watching as he peed next to Phosphorus and Phosphorus complained. The team entered Poko Castle, amazed at the magnitude of the place. Seeing the portraits of the past monarchs, and with Bride jokingly suggested to Flag that the family likely had incestuous relationships. Flag looked in admiration at Princess Ilana Rostovic, who approached to greet him.
Flag, Sr. and the team are on alert due to a joke by Alexi
Rostovic mentioned that Flag's middle name was Bill, prompting teasing from Bride and Nina Mazursky. Flag bowed while greeting Rostovic, but Alexi told him that his greeting was reckless by Pokolistan standards, warning that they should be killed. The guards pointed their guns at Flag, scaring him. Flag desperately tried to apologize by claiming not to know their rules, only for Alexi to start laughing and reveal that it was a joke. Finally, Rostovic stopped Alexi, inviting the team to a banquet.[1]
Meeting Rostovic[]
Flag, Sr. listens to Ilana Rostovic during the banquet
- "Look, I think we need to get some shut-eye so we can put a cogent plan in place in the morning."
- ―Rick Flag, Sr. to Ilana Rostovic[src]
Task Force M was led to a feast of roast chicken at a table and ate the food intensely, prompting Flag to apologize to Rostovic for their manners. Rostovic told Flag to refer to her by her first name, and the two toasted. Rostovic calmed Flag down by telling him that their manners did not bother her and that she enjoyed watching his friends. Hearing the Queen snore, Rostovic introduced her to Flag, telling him how she was unofficially taking care of the kingdom since her mother was no longer able to do so.
Flag, Sr. talks with Ilana Rostovic about Weasel
At dusk, the team went out to the courtyard, where Flag was drinking beer while Rostovic played fetch with Weasel. Flag then sat down to talk to Rostovic, expressing a desire that the team were not a nuisance as their goal was to keep her safe. Rostovic reassured Flag, claiming that she enjoyed the company. Flag then questioned whether she liked Weasel's company, to which she asked why he was imprisoned. Flag explained that he had supposedly killed twenty-seven children, but that he had not shown any violent tendencies since then and and told her not to be worried.
Flag, Sr. talks with Ilana Rostovic about his son
Rostovic then expressed her musical taste for rock and roll, making Flag laugh. Rostovic talked about how Pokolistan's culture was backward and that she wanted to change it to align more with Western culture in the twenty-first century. When Rostovic asked if he was married, he replied that he used to be but that he did not like it, during which he then told her about his son's military service and death, and Rostovic expressed condolences. Flag assured her that his son would have gotten along very well with her, but Rostovic began flirting with him, inviting him to accompany him to her bedroom.
Flag, Sr. is uncomfortable with Rostovic's attitude
Going up to a room, Rostovic showed Flag her closet which she thought was beautiful, confusing Flag, who did not understand what she wanted to show him. Rostovic then stripped in front of Flag, making him nervous as he avoided looking at her. Flag tried to get away from her, saying it was unethical to have sex with her. Rostovic pushed Flag onto her bed and continued to flirt with him, but feeling uncomfortable, Flag got out of bed and said that he didn't think it was appropriate. He said they would form a plan the next morning, leaving G.I. Robot to guard the door.[1]
Duel for the Nano-Bomb Remote Detonator[]
Flag, Sr. is attacked by Doctor Phosphorus
- "Phosphorus, you idiot! You think Waller would give me the only remote? You'd be hopping around like a Mexican jumping bean for days if you escaped. Or if I told her about this... I'm not here to torture you. We're supposed to be on the same damn team."
- ―Rick Flag, Sr. to Doctor Phosphorus[src]
Flag went to sleep until he was awakened by the sound of Doctor Phosphorus rummaging through his furniture looking for the Nano-Bomb Remote Detonator. Flag stood in front of him with a menacing look, making Phosphorus nervous. Flag quickly kicked Phosphorus against the wall, causing the detonator to fall to the floor. Flag and Phosphorus stared at the detonator for a few seconds, running towards it to grab it. Phosphorus activated his radiation to try to hit Flag, but Flag dodged it, proceeding to push him to grab the detonator. Phophorus quickly counterattacked by launching himself at him while Flag continued to dodge, and the bed caught fire.
Flag, Sr. slams Doctor Phosphorus into the table
Flag grabbed a pillow to try to put it out, when Phosphorus tried to attack him. Flag ran away and hit the wall, then hit Phosphorous in the face, only to burn his hand. The wooden floor then collapsed, causing Flag and Phorsphorus to fall into the castle's kitchen. Seeing the detonator in a cup, Flag tried to grab it, but Phosphorus grabbed his arm, setting it on fire. Flag kicked Phosphorus and hit him with a frying pan. Flag grabbed the detonator, leading Phosphorus to launch a radioactive attack at him, accidentally knocking him into a hot pot. Flag took a glove and ambushed Phosphorus, knocking him into the table repeatedly, but Phosphorus threw hot water on his face and hit him.
Flag, Sr. scolds Doctor Phosphorus
Flag resisted by slamming Phosphorus into a bookshelf, knocking Phosphorus down and grabbing the remote, threatening use it. However, as Rostovic arrived on the scene, Flag restrained himself and scolded Phosphorus, warning him of the consequences if Amanda Waller found out. Flag reminded him that they were on the same team and that he was not there to torture him, making Phosphorus reflect.[1]
Intimate Encounter with Rostovic[]
Flag, Sr. is seduced by Ilana Rostovic
- "So, with the remote you control them?"
"Hypothetically, they haven't proved themselves to be extraordinary obedient." - ―Ilana Rostovic and Rick Flag, Sr.[src]
Flag was taken by Ilana Rostovic to the bathroom to treat his burns. He angrily glared at Doctor Phosphorus, G.I. Robot, and Weasel, who watched from the doorway. Flag threatened the team with the Nano-Bomb Remote Detonator, but Rostovic closed the door. Rostovic asked what the detonator did, finding the treatment of the Creature Commandos to be cruel. Rostovic asked Flag to take off his shirt to clean his wounds, talking about how obedient the team was. Flag promised her that he would keep her safe, surprising Rostovic with his kindness. Rostovic began to ask him about his injuries, touching him and making him uncomfortable as he tried to turn her down. Rostovic continued to seduce him, then kissing him and encouraging him to have sex with her, stripping while the team listened to the moans from the doorway.[2]
Rescue Mission[]
Flag, Sr. denies that Doctor Phosphorus is a Nazi
- "What are you doing out here? We thought we were recruiting monsters, not damsels in distress!"
- ―Rick Flag, Sr. to Bride of Frankenstein[src]
Once Flag and Ilana Rostovic finished having sex, the team alerted Flag to Bride of Frankenstein and Nina Mazursky having left Poko Castle. Flag got dressed and had them tag along. As they left the castle, Flag zipped his pants and was upset with Phosphorus for not letting Alexi inform him as soon as he found out. Phosphorus explained that he saw it as a favor, and Flag reprimanded him for attacking him. When G.I. Robot asked if Phosphorus was a Nazi, Flag explained that he was not as he got in an armored tank with Alexi. Flag showed Mazursky and Bride's location to Mazursky, with Flag buckling up and Alexi pedaling away at full speed. Mazursky attempted to contact Flag as they were under attack. He scolded Mazursky, but heard as Mazursky became cornered. Flag attempted to get Mazursky to respond, but when there was no response, he told Alexi to drive faster.[2]
Flag, Sr. ambushes the Frankenstein Manor
Upon arriving at Frankenstein Manor, the team took to the ground as G.I. Robot suggested Flag to shoot, however Flag told him to stay calm and saw how the radar showed Nina and Bride not moving assuming they were captured, so he explained the rescue plan to the team. Once Flag gave them the signal, the team ambushed the mansion, with Flag kicking in the door and pointing his gun, however they quickly saw Bride tied to a seat with her mouth bandaged screaming in despair. Flag pulled the tape off her mouth and she alerted them that Circe and her forces had escaped, but Flag asked her why she was screaming, with her stating that she was asking to be untied, and Flag became frustrated with her for putting herself in danger.
Flag, Sr. orders the Task Force M to run back to the Poko Castle
Flag wondered why Circe had let Bride and Nina live, quickly realizing that it was a distraction to attack the Princess, desperately ordering the team to run to the tank to return to the castle. Once they got in, they were shocked to see G.I. Robot carrying Nina Mazursky in a bathtub, which he quickly placed in the tank and Nina tried to apologize to Flag explaining that she did not want to accompany Bride, but Flag said it did not matter, desperately asking Alexi to kick the pedal back to the castle explaining the situation to Alexi. Once they approached the castle, Flag worried about the princess asked Alexi to hurry.[7]
Battle at Poko Castle[]
Flag, Sr. encourages G.I. Robot to kill the Sons of Themyscira
- "Are these Nazis, General?"
"Yeah, GI. These are Nazis." - ―G.I. Robot and Rick Flag, Sr.[src]
Upon reaching the castle gate, the team brutally ran over one of the Sons of Themyscira and quickly exited the vehicle to meet the thugs, with Flag shooting several of them. Flag and the team ended up taking cover under the pond while he shot at the Sons of Themyscira who were shooting at them from the castle. At that, G.I. Robot asked Flag if the enemies they were fighting were Nazis, and the latter answered affirmatively, encouraging him to kill them. Quickly, G.I. Robot activated his weapons and began firing at his enemies. When the robot switched its cannons to triple cannons, Flag ordered the team to take cover on the ground.
Flag, Sr. and the team listen to Circe warn them that they doomed the world
However, Circe blasted G.I. Robot in the back, and Nina Mazursky watched in horror as her friend was destroyed, trying to go towards him, but was stopped by Flag who watched with concern as Circe was about to attack them. The team managed to dodge Circe's blast and Flag watched in shock as she flew to the window of the princess's room to kill her. However, Weasel pushed Circe out the window and savagely bite her, knocking her out, with Doctor Phosphorus burning her face as she screamed in agony, shocking Flag, with Bride approaching to tell him that this was what monsters did. A defeated Circe became angry at them, warning them that they doomed the world.[7]
Flag, Sr. bids farewell to Ilana Rostovic
With Circe defeated, Flag met up with Ilana Rostovic, sharing a kiss with her on the rooftop, who asked if he would see her again, to which he explained that he should go back to Belle Reve to find out what was going on with Circe. Rostovic then suggested just shooting her, mispronouncing bang, which made Flag laugh, explaining that killing people was not the American way, although Rostovic reminded him that the internet thought otherwise. Rostovic expressed her feelings to Flag, telling him that she was in love with him, but Flag had to leave for the Sheba.[5]
Returning Home[]
Flag, Sr. meets Elizabeth Bates
- "We don't know his real name."
"You don't know his real name because he can't talk." - ―Elizabeth Bates and Rick Flag, Sr.[src]
Upon leaving the Osprey, Flag spoke to Bride, expressing that despite having gotten them into trouble, she was good for the mission, inviting her to join them again if necessary, which upset her, and when Flag drank water he was spied on by Eric Frankenstein from a distance. Flag then saw Elizabeth Bates meeting with Weasel, who asked him where he had taken him, but Flag was confused by Bates using the term "man" on Weasel, asking who she was. Bates introduced herself as Weasel's attorney representing the Freedom Project, showing her business card which he threw away.
Flag, Sr. argues with Elizabeth Bates
Bates called Weasel "John Doe", but Flag told her that they don't know his real name because he can't talk, warning her that the mission he participated in was classified. Bates bluntly claimed that her client was innocent despite Flag prejudicing Weasel for hearing that he had killed 27 children, but Bates corrected Flag, because he was actually accused of killing 8 children and unjustly sentenced to prison, stating that she had been waiting for him for 3 days, and an upset Flag let her take him to talk to him.[5]
Protecting Ilana Rostovic[]
Circe's Interrogation[]
Economos, Flag Sr, and Waller interrogate Circe
- "Are you telling me the United States is now in the business of executing people for crimes they haven't committed yet?"
"The United States is in the business of saving the damn world by any means necessary." - ―Rick Flag, Sr. and Amanda Waller[src]
Flag and John Economos accompanied Amanda Waller to the interrogation room to question Circe and watched as the guards sat her in her chair against her will. Waller was sarcastic with Circe by telling her that she was being prosecuted for witchcraft crimes, mentioning witches from popular culture, which led to Economos mentioning Bette Midler and Flag identifying the actress from her role in Hocus Pocus. Circe excused herself by claiming that she was trying to prevent a catastrophe, which caused Flag to mock her by reminding her of how she tried to kill them.
Flag, Sr. watches Amanda Waller's encounter with Circe
As Circe continued to talk about how she could show Waller the future, Flag claimed that she was lying, however, Economos read the files and told Waller that she was possibly clairvoyant and that although she was bound, she could not cast spells, but she could enter her head, upon hearing this, Flag warned Waller not to do so. However, Waller ignored him and proceeded to enter the chamber with Circe, where Flag and Economos soon observed Waller's encounter with Circe up close, who was left traumatized upon seeing a disturbing vision of multiple bloodied superheroes being killed by Ilana Rostovic and her forces.
Flag, Sr. talks about Themyscira
Waller quickly returned to Flag and Economos, with Flag desperately asking her what she saw, suggesting that she was surely playing some Jedi mind trick on her, however Waller claimed it was legitimate, which Flag flatly refused to believe, seeing her call Dr. Aisla MacPherson, who upon arriving corfimed that she was legitimately a clairvoyant. Flag expressed frustration at the Dr. for taking Themyscira as fact, prompting Economos to educate him by telling him that they had indeed discovered it was real, and while Flag believed them, he found the concept of an all-female island to be absurd.
Flag, Sr. questions Aisla MacPherson's veracity
MacPherson explained how Circe had predicted a tsunami that ended up happening and how she became less altruistic, stating the vision was genuine and Flag found it ridiculous and still did not believe her. However, worried about the fate of the world, Waller requested Flag to reassemble Task Force M to kill Rostovic, which angered Flag who questioned Aisla's veracity and desperately expressed his doubts about the vision, questioning how Circe was unable to see Weasel and Doctor Phosphorus' attack coming, and MacPherson commented that clairvoyants do not control the parts of the premonitions they see, which seemed convenient to Flag, suspicious of her.
Flag, Sr. refuses to be part of the mission
When Waller asked Economos to contact the Pokolistan Embassy to make them believe there was another threat and let them into the country, Flag asked Waller to stop, stating that he genuinely knew Rostovic and that they shouldn't condemn people for crimes they haven't committed yet, but Waller was willing to save the world at any cost necessary, and that having sex with her didn't mean he knew her, making Flag uncomfortable, who dropped out of the mission and left the area.[5]
Attacked by Eric Frankenstein[]
Flag, Sr. is attacked by Eric Frankenstein
- "I should be the one screaming here. You attacked me for no reason."
- ―Rick Flag, Sr. to Eric Frankenstein[src]
Desperate for Rostovic's safety, Flag drove to his house while calling the Amethyst Knights requesting to speak to Rostovic, however the guard did not understand English well, with Flag urging that Rostovic was in danger, becoming frustrated when he was cut off. Flag parked his car and ran to get inside his house, however while he was looking for the keys, he was surprised by a car that crashed into a tree, becoming confused when he saw Eric Frankenstein running towards him, who quickly pushed him destroying the door, grabbing him and slamming him against the wall, without Flag understanding why he was attacking him, being thrown against the glass with his trophies.
Flag, Sr. points a gun at Eric Frankenstein
Flag stood up and started shooting at Frankenstein, angering him, who grabbed his arm, but Flag managed to kick him in the balls. When he tried to shoot him, he realized that he had no bullets left, being slammed against the table and thrown against a door, however Flag managed to get up, reload his gun and climb on his back in an awkward position, pointing a gun at his head. Frankenstein began to throw a tantrum and Flag yelled at him for attacking him for no reason, making Frankenstein laugh, but he quickly began to cry assuring Flag that she did not love her, confusing Flag who thought he was talking about the princess, but then realized that he was talking about the Bride, assuring him that they didn't were in love.[5]
Befriending Frankenstein[]
Flag, Sr. talks with Eric Frankenstein
- "So, maybe, we can help each other."
"Best friends." - ―Rick Flag, Sr. and Eric Frankenstein[src]
Frankenstein continued crying but Flag asked him to calm down so they could talk, letting him get off his back and seeing him crying he asked him if he wanted something to drink, with Frankenstein asking for tea. While preparing the tea, Flag told Frankenstein how he met the princess and how she was in danger, which Frankenstein found a beautiful story, admiring their love even though Flag denied it, comparing Flag to Leonardo DiCaprio in Titanic by calling him the king of the world. Frankenstein said that his love with the Bride was more like When Harry Met Sally..., because they both knew they were destined to be together and how they had an orgasm in the restaurant scene, but Flag assured him that that didn't happen in the movie. Flag then proposed to help each other, making Frankenstein happy who came to see him as a best friend.[5]
Flag, Sr. and Eric Frankenstein spy Aisla MacPherson's class
Flag and Eric Frankenstein began spying on Aisla MacPherson's lecture from a window in a bush at Terrebone University, becoming puzzled by the erratic behavior of the doctor, which they found unprofessional, becoming uncomfortable when they were discovered by some students walking through the courtyard, and Flag facepalmed when Frankenstein pretended to have lost his contact lens. Frankenstein then asked how this would help him reunite with Bride and Flag told him that it was an exchange of help, but Frankenstein was upset that it was taking too long, and Flag promised that if they discovered the truth about MacPherson and stopped her, Bride would see Frankenstein as a hero.
Flag, Sr. gets angry when his call is cut off
Frankenstein became excited and suggested that Flag kill the teacher and students, which upset Flag who denied it, asking why they would do it and Frankenstein thought that was being a hero, but Flag told him that it was not, asking him to go infiltrate the teacher's house to look for evidence while she was teaching, and becoming disappointed when Frankenstein mentioned going to look for underwear. Upon leaving the university, Flag tried to call the Pokolistan guards again to talk to Ilana Rostovic, realizing that the guard did not know English, but was angry when he cut him off.[8]
Infiltration into Aisla MacPherson's House[]
Flag, Sr. and Eric Frankenstein discover the real Aisla MacPherson
- "Had to be a fake, some sort of disguise artist, or someone working for Circe to throw us all off track. All that mumbo-jumbo with Waller yesterday, to get the Princess killed."
- ―Rick Flag, Sr. to Eric Frankenstein[src]
Flag and Eric Frankenstein drove to Dr. Aisla MacPherson's house, listening to Frankenstein wonder why people had pet cats as he tried to pick the lock with a metal key until he managed to open it, infiltrating the house where they saw several relics. Flag told Frankenstein he would look up, climbing cautiously until he stepped in blood, following the stains and finding the real MacPherson murdered in a chair, calling Frankenstein to see her, assuming that the MacPherson they saw at the university was an impostor working for Circe in a plot to kill the princess.
Flag, Sr. warns Rostovic about Task Force M threat
Flag proceeded to call Ilana Rostovic's butlers asking to speak to her, who upon hearing his voice ran to speak to him, and Flag urgently asked him to leave the castle because the Creature Commandos were on their way to kill her, frightening her. When Rostovic asked for an explanation, Eric Frankenstein began to interrupt him demanding that he speak of him as a hero, angering Flag who asked him to shut up, and as they did not have time, Flag only demanded to leave the castle, before being forced to hang up when he saw through the window how the MacPherson impostor returned.
Flag, Sr. orders Eric Frankenstein to hide
Flag was then reprimanded by Eric Frankenstein for not telling Rostovic about him being his best friend and that Bride would see him as a changed person, but Flag asked him to keep quiet while he hid between two pieces of furniture, reminding him that Bride was trying to kill the princess, causing Frankenstein to doubt the efficacy of the plan. Flag however demanded that Frankenstein hide, becoming upset when he simply positioned himself behind a birdcage, and Flag ordered him to hide behind the bed.[8]
Brutalized by Clayface[]
Flag, Sr. fights against Clayface
- "Tell The Bride the truth. You..."
- ―Rick Flag, Sr. to Eric Frankenstein[src]
Flag and Frankenstein cautiously went down the stairs, seeing the MacPherson impostor feed the cat and then play Mortal Kombat 1, transforming back into its original form and Flag identifying it as the shape-shifting metahuman Clayface, so they had to leave the house unseen. Flag prepared to open the door but Frankenstein noticed that Clayface had extended his limbs grabbing his legs, bragging that he had discovered them. Clayface punched Flag and threw him against the wall, causing him serious injuries until Frankenstein managed to break free and run to attack Clayface, allowing Flag to shoot at the creature, but was distressed to see that it had not worked, being hit several times by the creature in the face
Flag, Sr. falls to the ground unconscious
Clayface then broke Flag's back over his leg, causing him deep pain and leaving him out of combat, until Frankenstein managed to grab a wire with which he electrocuted Clayface, making him explode. Flag began to agonize as Eric Frankenstein held him in his arms, with him asking him if the Bride had ever mentioned him during the mission, spitting blood which he understood as a yes, Frankenstein then asked him if the Bride said it with affection, worrying that he did not respond, and with his last breaths, Flag asked Frankenstein to tell the truth to the Bride, before falling unconscious.[8]
Recovery at the Hospital[]
Warning Amanda Waller[]
Flag is hospitalized and watched by Waller
- "Come on, Flag. You're gonna make it. We need to know what happened. How does this tie into everything? Who wanted you dead? You're too old and too tough and too stubborn to give up on me now."
- ―Amanda Waller to Rick Flag, Sr.[src]
Shortly after instructing Eric Frankenstein to locate the Creature Commandos and falling unconscious, Flag was rushed by him to a hospital, where he was discovered by Amanda Waller and John Economos. The doctors reported that Flag had suffered severe internal injuries, including a broken back, and was in a coma. They also reported that a humanoid green monster with bolts on his head had dropped him off, with Economos assuming it was Frankenstein. Waller would then watch Flag worriedly, sitting near him as she begged him to make it, saying that they needed to know what happened, how it tied into everything and who wanted him dead.[9]
Flag warns Waller about Aisla MacPherson
Flag awoke from his coma suffering from slurred speech, making just enough sounds for Waller to notice. With his limited breaths, Flag warned Waller that she was wrong about ordering the murder of Ilana Rostovic, using his final breaths to utter Aisla MacPherson's name, before passing out. Flag's efforts proved successful when she and Economos entered MacPherson's home, who, worried about starting a pointless war, stopped Task Force M from killing Rostovic.[10] Flag eventually recovered and, some time later, dyed his hair color black.[11]
Personality[]
- "You're such a kind man. That is so rare here in Pokolistan."
- ―Ilana Rostovic to Rick Flag, Sr.[src]
Rick Flag Sr. can be described as a competent and charismatic leader, someone who knows how to work in a team and unite his allies in moments of tension. His confidence and negotiation skills are evident, especially in critical situations, like when he compassionately convinces Dr. Phosphorus to abandon his plan to steal the shock device and forces him to cooperate. His reliability makes him one of Amanda Waller's most prestigious men.
Flag Sr. is a man of authority who, although serious and dedicated to his duty, is also described as incredibly vain and concerned about his appearance. Despite his firm demeanor, Flag Sr. is susceptible to the allure of beautiful women and has a weakness for them, which makes him vulnerable to attempts at seduction. When he meets Ilana for the first time, he quickly feels attracted to her, though he initially resists her overt advances, justifying his actions with the importance of his role as her protector. However, this resistance quickly crumbles when Ilana tries to seduce him again, and he ultimately relents completely and engages in passionate sex with the younger woman.
Rick Flag Sr.'s personal struggle, although he doesn't show it, is that he is still deeply hurt by the loss of his only son, Rick Flag Jr., a wound that remains fresh even after two years. The guilt consumes him, especially because Flag Jr. enlisted out of love for his country, largely inspired by his father, and harboring a bitter resentment towards his son's killer Peacemaker.
Despite being an open-minded man, Rick Flag Sr. is not immune to the horrors he witnesses in his line of work. His years of experience make him cautious, but he is still shaken by certain situations and looks on in shock. For example, he is deeply disturbed when witnessing the extreme violence Circe suffers at the hands of Weasel and Dr. Phosphorus. He is not insensitive to the suffering of villains or the personal feelings of his teammates. When G.I. Robot is destroyed, he comforts Nina by gently placing his hand on her shoulder, acknowledging their friendship.
Abilities[]
- Expert Tactician: Flag's extensive military background has made him a skilled tactician, capable of adapting to even the most challenging circumstances. During his confrontation with Doctor Phosphorus, he resourcefully used kitchen supplies—a pan and an oven mitt—to neutralize the threat posed by his opponent's radioactive skin. Later, during the attack on Poko Castle, he cleverly leveraged G.I. Robot's fixation on killing Nazis to persuade him to open fire on Circe's troops.
- Master Combatant: Rick Flag, Sr. is a formidable hand-to-hand combatant owing to his extensive military experience, managing to endure an extended fight with Doctor Phosphorus despite the latter's metahuman powers and subdue him while sustaining minor injuries, outmaneuvering the hulking Eric Frankenstein long enough to force him at gunpoint, and surviving a violent encounter with the shapeshifting superhumanly strong Clayface but taking a brutal beating.
- Expert Marksman: Rick Flag, Sr. is an adept marksman from his military training, accurately shooting Clayface to little effect.
Equipment[]
Weapons[]
- Glock 17: Flag's main weapon of choice is an army handgun he carries with him on missions. During the attack on the Poko Castle by Circe and her men, he used it against the enemy troops. He used it against Clayface at MacPherson's house, to no avail.
Other Equipment[]
- Nano-Bomb Remote Detonator: To ensure the compliance of Task Force M's members, Amanda Waller handed to Rick Flag Sr. a detonator capable of releasing a stunning electric blast. He almost used it when Doctor Phosphorus attempted to steal it before changing his mind and giving him an ultimatum instead.
Facilities[]
- House: To be added
- Belle Reve Correctional Center: To be added
- Poko Castle: To be added
Relationships[]
Family[]
Allies[]
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Enemies[]
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Appearances[]
| Appearances for Rick Flag, Sr. |
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| In chronological order: |
Trivia[]
- In the comics, Rick Flag, Sr. was the leader of the wartime Suicide Squadron and the father of Rick Flag, Jr. After a reboot in the multiverse, Flag, Sr. was renamed as Anthony Miller.
- Bride of Frankenstein referred to Flag as a "jarhead,"[2] an informal nickname for a member of the United States Marine Corps, implying the branch of the military in which he served.
Behind the Scenes[]
- Frank Grillo said his character had more gravitas than Rick Flag Jr. and was a competent leader.[6]
- According to James Gunn, the reason Rick Flag, Sr.'s hair is white in Creature Commandos and dark in Superman is because Frank Grillo was filming Tulsa King while they were shooting the second season of Peacemaker. Gunn explained that Sr. uses temporary hair dye. Coincidentally, Sr. in the series is portrayed as an incredibly vain man, easily influenced by women and driven by his ego, suggesting that Sr. generally dyes his hair.[12]
- Grillo said that him and James Gunn had met up at several Marvel events and had talked about working together on a project for a while. Gunn told him that he would give him a call if certain things fell into place, then he contacted Grillo about doing an animated show where his character would eventually be brought to live action.[13]
References[]
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 1.6 1.7 Creature Commandos: 1.01: The Collywobbles
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 Creature Commandos: 1.02: The Tourmaline Necklace
- ↑ James Gunn on Threads - May 10, 2024
- ↑ Everything_DCU on X - February 25, 2025
- ↑ 5.0 5.1 5.2 5.3 5.4 5.5 Creature Commandos: 1.04: Chasing Squirrels
- ↑ 6.0 6.1 6.2 "Frank Grillo Joins 'Peacemaker' Season 2 as Rick Flag, Sr."
- ↑ 7.0 7.1 Creature Commandos: 1.03: Cheers to the Tin Man
- ↑ 8.0 8.1 8.2 Creature Commandos: 1.05: The Iron Pot
- ↑ Creature Commandos: 1.06: Priyatel Skelet
- ↑ Creature Commandos: 1.07: A Very Funny Monster
- ↑ James Gunn on Instagram - November 21, 2024
- ↑ James Gunn Reveals What's Still Canon in the DCU and Discusses ‘Creature Commandos,’ the Next Batman, ‘Superman,’ and More (Exclusive)
- ↑ Frank Grillo Is Ready to Lead DC's New Era With Creature Commandoshttps://www.menshealth.com/entertainment/a63095402/creature-commandos-frank-grillo-interview/
External Links[]
| Creature Commandos | |
|---|---|
| Current Members | |
| Bride of Frankenstein • Doctor Phosphorus • G.I. Robot • Weasel • King Shark • Nosferata • Khalis | |
| Former Members | |
| Rick Flag, Sr. • Nina Mazursky |