VT Remembrance around campus

By Rosa Duarte

Published: April 16, 2008

Wednesday morning, the drill field was a sea of maroon and orange.

Sophomore Bryce Carter says “Just being out here right now with the community out today because we don’t have school, I feel like within that itself…that’s how we’re honoring them.”

As the atmosphere near the memorial remained quiet and reflective, students gathered in groups on the grass just hanging out giving their own tribute. Some through music, others offered support through hugs and prayers.

“I just really wanted to be here and to see what all they were telling us about and the service and just be with my friends and my family for today” said Blacksburg High School Student Eva Rettig, who sat with friends listening as they played their guitars on the drill field.

Indoors, workshops and exhibits let students use the creative side while the beautiful weather made it a perfect day for softball. Hundreds gathered at the Tech soft ball field to watch the Hokies take on Liberty in memory of those who lost their lives.

On another side of campus, students and families took part in a tree planting ceremony in front of the Honors building. A white oak was dedicated in memory of Austin Cloyd and a sugar maple in memory of Maxine Turner.

Bryan Cloyd says a tree planting is a very fitting memorial especially since his daughter enjoyed reading underneath the shade of a huge tree near their home when she was younger.

Despite having the day off of classes, thousands of students returned to campus to remember and reflect together. Bryce says “A year later it’s obvious we’re a regular college campus, that we have this amazing Hokie spirit and it’s just wonderful being here.”