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Tours

  1. Bonfire Memorial Tour

    Experience the Bonfire Memorial and learn about the former tradition and the 12 fallen Aggies.

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    1. Bonfire Memorial

      Howdy and welcome to the Texas A&M University Bonfire Memorial. The memorial was built to honor the memories of the twelve Aggies who perished when the Bonfire stack under construction collapsed at 2:42 am on November 18, 1999 as well as commemorate the 27 other students who were injured in that tragedy. 

      From its inception as a scrap heap to the more familiar and impressive stack of vertical logs, the Texas Aggie Bonfire symbolized every Aggie’s “burning desire” to beat the University of Texas in football. Attracting between 30,000 and 70,000 people each year to watch it burn, Bonfire became a symbol of the deep and unique camaraderie that is the Aggie Spirit.

      In preparation for the much-anticipated annual football game against “t.u.”, as Aggies refer to their rival, the student-built Texas Aggie Bonfire would burn after Yell Practice. The lighting ceremony included the playing of “The Spirit of Aggieland” by the Fightin’ Texas Aggie Band and the traditional reading of “The Last Corps Trip” poem. An outhouse, known as the “t.u. tea room” or “t.u. frat house” was built by sophomores in the Aggie band and sat atop the completed Bonfire. Aggie lore has it that if the Bonfire stood until after midnight, they would win the game.


      Since the initial Bonfire in 1909, Texas A&M students have banded together each year to build and burn the Bonfire, and in the process helped it to evolve into the largest in the world. Bonfire burned each year through 1998, with the exception of 1963. That year Bonfire was built but torn down in a tribute to President John F. Kennedy who was assassinated on November 22, 1963. Texas A&M Head Yell Leader Mike Marlowe said, “It is the most we have and the least we can give.” This event is commemorated by a missing stone in the timeline of History Walk. 

      The second time in A&M’s history that Bonfire did not burn was almost exactly 92 years after the first Bonfire due to its collapse in 1999.


      Five years later, the Bonfire Memorial was dedicated on the exact location of the ’99 Bonfire.

    2. The Spirit Wall

      The quotation "There's a spirit can ne'er be told" is taken from the Aggie alma mater and characterizes the enduring Aggie Spirit. 

      Anything made of granite within the memorial represents a place in time and being an aggie. Anything in bronze represents a person who was injured or lost their life while participating in Bonfire.  

      All the granite in the memorial came from a quarry in southwestern China and required special machinery in order to cut the volume of granite needed. The Spirit Wall is the largest single piece of cut granite in the United States.  

    3. Tradition Plaza - Last Corps Trip

      The Tradition Plaza is the first of three distinct areas within the memorial and marks the entrance where one can reflect on the activities that bring Aggies together. The Last Corps Trip Wall on the north side of the plaza recites the poem traditionally read prior to the lighting of Bonfire each year.

      The Last Corps Trip - by P.H. DuVal, Jr.'51

      It was Judgment Day in Aggieland
      And tenseness filled the air;
      All knew there was a trip at hand,
      But not a soul knew where.

      Assembled on the drill field
      Was the world-renowned Twelfth Man,
      The entire fighting Aggie team
      And the famous Aggie Band.

      And out in front with Royal Guard
      The reviewing party stood;
      St. Peter and his angel staff
      Were choosing bad from good.

      First he surveyed the Aggie team
      And in terms of an angel swore,
      “By Jove, I do believe I’ve seen
      This gallant group before.

      I’ve seen them play since way back when,
      And they’ve always had the grit;
      I’ve seen ‘em lose and I’ve seen ‘em win,
      But I’ve never seen ‘em quit.

      No need for us to tarry here
      Deciding upon their fates;
      Tis plain as the halo on my head
      That they’ve opened Heaven’s gates.”

      And when the Twelfth Man heard this,
      They let out a mighty yell
      That echoed clear to Heaven
      and shook the gates of Hell.

      “And what group is this upon the side,”
      St. Peter asked his aide,
      “That swelled as if to burst with pride
      When we our judgment made?”

          “Why, sir, that’s the Cadet Corps
      That’s known both far and wide
      For backing up their fighting team
      Whether they won, lost or tied.”

      “Well, then,” said St. Peter,
      “It’s very plain to me
      That within the realms of Heaven
      They should spend eternity.

      And have the Texas Aggie Band
      At once commence to play
      For their fates too we must decide
      Upon this crucial day.”

      And the drum major so hearing
      Slowly raised his hand
      And said, “Boys, let’s play The Spirit
      For the last time in Aggieland.”

      And the band poured forth the anthem
      In notes both bright and clear
      And ten thousand Aggie voices
      Sang the song they hold so dear.

      And when the band had finished,
      St. Peter wiped his eyes
      And said, “It’s not so hard to see
      They’re meant for Paradise.”

      And the colonel of the Cadet Corps said
      As he stiffly took his stand,
      “It’s just another Corps Trip, boys,
      We’ll march in behind the band.”

      Additional bonfire verse by Kathryn Holmes Smith :

      Then heaven's pearly portals opened,
      Hosts of Angels showed the way,
      For that Fighting Texas Aggie group
      On that final Judgment Day.

      When more Aggies came in view.
      Twelve dressed in Bonfire gear
      Walking arm and arm, and singing
      Of the School they hold so dear.

      Twelve Aggie voices said "Howdy"
      To the keepers of the Gate.
      "Working hard we just lost track of time,
      We hope we're not too late."

      "It's the Fighting Aggie Bonfire Crew,"
      St. Peter said, "Behold."
      They're ready to light up Heaven,
      With their courage and faith so bold".

      "I would often watch them building,
      That Stack so large and high,
      And surely knew the time would come
      They would build it in the sky."

      And so the twelve came through the Gates,
      St. Peter said, "Don't fear,
      You are just in time for Roll Call"
      One by one, they answered. . . "Here."

       

    4. 1909 - The First Bonfire

      This stone marks the beginning of History Walk and symbolizes 1909 as the first year a bonfire was built on campus. The first Bonfire was no more than a large stack of scrap lumber, tree limbs and anything else the cadets could find. 

      Over the years, Bonfire evolved from a scrap of lumber to a more standardized stack of cut logs and in 1978, took its final form into the traditional stacked "wedding cake" shape.  

    5. History Walk

      The History Walk portrays the 90 years of Bonfire preceding the 1999 collapse. The granite timeline is comprised of 89 stones arranged in a north-south line and begins with 1909, the first year Bonfire was built on campus. The amber light and notch in each stone recalls the fire glow of Bonfire each November. The break in the timeline in 1963 signifies the year John F. Kennedy was assassinated and the only year that Bonfire did not burn. Three previous Bonfire-related deaths are remembered on the timeline in the years they occurred with an extra notch in that year's stone.

    6. Spirit Ring

      The Spirit Ring surrounds the site of the 1999 Bonfire and represents the Aggie Spirit that unites individuals into something greater than themselves. The twelve portals are oriented toward the hometowns of those who perished in the collapse. From different backgrounds, communities and beliefs, these students converged on this field, along with many of their fellow Aggies to celebrate the Aggie Spirit. Twenty-seven stones with bronze inlays representing the injured students connect these portals to complete the circle, recalling the Aggie Ring and the ring of Aggies who reunited to celebrate the Bonfire tradition year after year. Each bronze element symbolizes an Aggie, the ring itself represents the common bond connecting each one to the Aggie Spirit. Stepping into one of the oversized gateways on the circle, the visitor symbolically fills the void left by one of the twelve Aggies, embodying the spirit of the 12th Man.

      There is a stone in the center of the ring in the location of the stack's center pole. It has the date and time of the tragedy carved into it as well as markers pointing to each portal and to the student's hometowns. It can be accessed by walking through any of the portals. 

    7. Lucas John Kimmel ‘03

      Corpus Christi, Texas

      Freshman

      Biomedical Science major

      Member of Company D-2



      Lucas’ love and dedication to God and to his Catholic faith were present in all his activities and pursuits. His philosophy was to put God first in his life, and all else would fall into place. He felt so strongly about this that he had a cross put under the stone in his high school class ring.

      He was extremely proud of his family, especially of his role as Uncle to his ten nieces and nephews. Four months after his death, another nephew was born and baptized Alexander Lucas in his honor.

      Lucas, an Eagle Scout, loved outdoor activities and spent much of his time participating in them. He hoped to be a veterinarian due to his love for animals, especially his dog, Maverick.

      There is living and there is existing. If you are living, life will take your breath. In tasting honey you may get a sting, but life stagnant is worse than death.

      Bite into life and let the juice run down. Lives are not measured with chances untook. Enjoy the blooms now, in time they’ll be brown. Chances for lovers are often forsook.

      Forget all the past, look not for your fate. Take life by the horns and live for today. Hard times will come if you rush the gate, but interesting people have suffered worse fate.

      Take hold of the world and go for a ride, ‘cause not all men live, but everyone dies.

      — Lucas John Kimmel

      Lucas’ Parents
      — James and Walieta Kimmel

      Lucas’ Brothers & Sister
      — James Irving Kimmel, Jr.
      — Christine Lydia (Kimmel) Pieper
      — Jonathan Paul Kimmel
      — Matthew Lewis Kimmel

      Lucas’ Godson
      — Jonathan Paul Kimmel, Jr.

    8. Bryan A. McClain ‘02

      San Antonio, Texas

      Freshman

      Agriculture major

      Member of Squadron 2


      “You were a great friend to everyone. Your dedication, your heart and your perseverance were the best we’ve ever seen. We’ll never forget your smile, your jokes, all the crazy things you did and the warmth of your hugs.”

      his bright, sparkling eyes,

      his crooked, irresistible grin,

      his infectious laugh, and

      his confident manner.

      “If you ask me what I came into this world to do, I will tell
      you. I came to live out loud.” —Emile Zola

      At the time of Bryan’s death, it was said by many that he had put more into his 19 years of life than a person 80 years old. Bryan was never silent, nor was he ever still. He was full of energy and enthusiasm. Bryan threw himself into every activity with gusto. He never saw a stranger, nor did he ever turn his back if someone needed help. Everyone loved him!

      Bryan gave glory, honor, and praise to God every day of his life.

      Attending Texas A&M had been a dream of Bryan’s since he was a small child. Bryan was pursuing a degree in Entomology, the study of insects. He was affectionately known by his friends as “Bug Boy.” At Texas A&M, Bryan was a proud member of the Texas A&M Corps of Cadets Air Force Squadron 2, also known as Gator 2.

      Music held a very special place in Bryan’s heart. He mastered the piano and the acoustical guitar. He loved music of every kind—rock, jazz, blues, Texas music, country…

      Bryan also loved the outdoors! He would grab every opportunity he could to go fishing, hunting, deer watching, swimming, or hiking. The outdoors fed Bryan’s soul.

      Bryan spent his summers as a lifeguard and swim instructor to the young people in his community. He was known as a “tough” coach, but he made swim lessons fun. He would spend hours playing water games with the kids, watching over each child as if they were his own.

      Bryan, you were a great son, grandson, brother, nephew, cousin, and friend. Having you in our lives was such a blessing! We will always remember how you lived…and how you died. Living life for what it was worth—having fun and seeing that everyone else had fun. You will never be forgotten! Bryan, we love you and miss you so much…

      June 9, 1980 – November 18, 1999

    9. Christopher D. Breen ‘96

      Austin, Texas
      Graduate

      Do not stand at my grave and weep.

      I am not there. I do not sleep.

      I am a thousand winds that blow.

      I am the diamond glints on snow.

      I am the sunlight on ripened grain.

      I am the gentle autumn rain.

      When you awaken in the morning’s hush,

      I am the swift uplifting rush

      Of quiet birds in circling flight.

      I am the soft star that shines at night.

      Do not stand at my grave and weep.

      I am not there. I do not sleep.

      — Northwest Indian Memorial on Death

    10. Jeremy Richard Frampton ‘99

      Turlock, California

      Senior

      Psychology major

      Former member of Company D-1


      “Jeremy had a passion for art. His art was poetry. The way he viewed life was in many ways the art of poetry. The way he lived his life was like gentle poetry.” – Zac Frampton

      The Purpose of Life
      – Jeremy Frampton

      Why look for reason
      there is no cause
      Why try to find a purpose
      there may be none at all
      Take whatever there is
      and make the most
      And if there is nothing
      make your own
      And while you are loving to live
      a reason will become
      and a purpose will appear
      making all the more reason to go on

      Enough
      – Jeremy Frampton

      If I stare long enough
      If I talk hard enough
      If I touch soft enough
      If I look good enough
      If I love deep enough
      Will I live long enough
      To love life enough

      Dear Mom,

      When the Corps of Cadets leaders knew we were going to make it, they gave us this piece of brass to wear on our uniform. It symbolizes every lesson I have ever learned in my childhood. I am giving this to you. It doesn’t look like much, but there is one thing I’ve learned. Sometimes the plainest things mean the most. When I’m away, you can pick this up and remember everything we’ve been through. I love you very much. Thank you.

      Love, Jeremy Richard Frampton
      Mother’s Day, 1996

      “Jeremy taught me to laugh, he taught me to hug, he taught me about God, he taught me forgiveness, and most of all, in his memory he taught me to love with all of my heart all of the time.” – Sarah Masingale Schager

      “…a young man who crossed all boundaries when reaching out in friendship to others.” – Rod Hollars

      “Tall and Handsome…a Huge Smile…a Calming Voice…a Slow Walk…a Sheltered Hug…a Man who never lost his Tender Heart and Easiness from his childhood” – Uncle Jeff

      “Jeremy was so loving and kind to everyone. Any time we ever saw Jeremy, he always had that wonderful smile and a big hug for us. We miss him very much. We know where he is and we are looking forward to seeing him one of these days.” – MiMi and PaPa Vercelli

      “Jeremy’s sense of humor was bright, quick, and earthy. He will always be my friend as well as my son.” -Dad

      “John 15:13 says: ‘Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.’ I was a part of Jeremy in life, and he remains a part of me.” – Corban Moore

    11. Chad A. Powell ‘03

      Keller, Texas

      Sophomore

      Computer Engineering major

      Resident of Fowler Hall

      “To everyone whom I never had the opportunity to meet, I’m sure I would have loved to be able to call you a friend.”

      – Chad Powell, Valedictory Speech, May, 1999
      Son   –   Brother   –  Friend
      If you did not have a chance to know Chad, we wanted you to see him through the eyes of his friends and family.
      “A model of honor, true character, and loyalty. He honored his life with integrity, his family with love and devotion, his community with leadership, friendship, and service, his God with commitment and passion”
      “A born leader, very intelligent, adventurous, fun loving, always thought of others, and he never met a stranger”
      “An amazing mind, a loving heart, and a great sense of humor”
      “Among his many passions were Scouting, computer programming, rock climbing, playing the guitar, running, Special Olympics, and making people smile”
      “An Eagle Scout who lived daily the Scout Oath and Law”
      “Did everything with a purpose and inspiring conviction. He just believed in ‘things important’ ”
      “Possessed a unique, unbridled enthusiasm for living”
      “A person who challenged himself to achieve the extraordinary”

      By the way Chad lived his life, he taught us, “It’s not about how much you take. It’s about how much you give.” May the spirit he possessed never pass from our hearts.

    12. Jerry Don Self ‘01

      Arlington, Texas

      Junior

      Engineering Technology major

      Member of Squadron 17


      “If others could only give like he gave, love like he loved, and live like he lived, what a wonderful place this would be.”

      “His smile, his hugs, and above all, his red long johns that he insisted on wearing to his flag football games.”

      “Remember the time I asked you why you were smiling? And you said, ‘I told myself a joke.’ What a silly guy!”

      “He was my buddy. He was my baby. He was my hero.” —Dad

      “Words cannot express the love, joy, and happiness that he brought into my life. I especially miss our conversations that always ended with ‘I love you mama.’”

      Jerry loved…

      SERVING GOD…

      “He talked about becoming a youth minister, working hard to become more ‘Christ-like.’”

      “He loved God so much; you would often wonder how he had time to do all that he did and still make time for God, but that’s how he was: He had a servant’s heart, and that’s how he lived his life: by God and for God.”

      A&M, THE CORPS, AND BONFIRE…

      “He had a desire to make Squadron #17 better. He did what he believed to be right, and he earned the respect of those around him.”

      “To all of us, he was like a big brother. He embodied everything that a Corps cadet should be. He could lead, he could follow, and he could teach.”

      BIBLE STUDIES, TEACHING, AND KIDS…

      “Visions of you at camp with kids hanging off of you like tinsel on a Christmas tree and how excited you were the first time a fourth grader told you that he wanted to accept Christ.”

      “He loved those kids and, WOW, did they love him! He did a routine to ‘Brick House’ and all the little girls would just scream! It was incredible watching him work with kids, as his eyes literally would sparkle. You could see God working through him. It was phenomenal.”

      PEOPLE…

      “He was a very caring and selfless person. I don’t think he realized how many lives he brightened each day with his kind smile and actions.”

      “His loyalty and compassion was obvious through the steadfast friendships he offered to many. He took the initiative to look past people’s faults and see their hearts, and cared for the hearts he saw. He was intriguing to so many, and drew people to come closer to him, to know him more.”

      SINGING AND DANCING…

      “He sang really loud and really bad.”

      “I never have learned so much from one individual; having faith in your beliefs, being true to yourself as well as a good Christian, living life to the fullest with every given moment you have and most of all, dance like you’ve never danced before.”

    13. Michael Stephen Ebanks ‘03

      Carrollton, Texas

      Freshman

      Aerospace Engineering major

      Resident of Keathley Hall

      “Ever since my brother announced that he was going to go to Texas A&M, I knew that I was bound for Aggieland also. Regardless of whether I showed it or not, I looked up to him. Gerald ‘Keith’ Ebanks, Jr. (’89) was my brother. In 1994 he was killed in a car accident, leaving behind a fiancée and our family.” — Michael Ebanks

      Brother • Confident • Friend • Industrious • Boy Scout • Pilot • Pianist • Student • Genuine • Spontaneous • Outdoorsman • Comedian • Caring • Son • Happy • Catholic • Shepherd

      Michael was a hard worker. He saved aluminum cans as a young boy to attend U.S. Space Camp twice. In high school, he refereedsoccer and roller hockey games, plus had a job at the airport, to earn money for his pilot’s license. He was not afraid to work for what he wanted. He was a 1996 Experimental Aircraft Association Air Academy Cadet and returned to AirVenture reunions at Oshkosh for two years. He also participated in the Young Eagles program, which takes children on their first airplane flights. His piano music was another example of motivation. He was self-taught and determined to play works by Beethoven. He practiced until he was well-accomplished and later learned other classical composers as well.

      Michael loved the human mind. He loved to tweak it, and even more he loved to tickle it. But he loved the human heart most; goodness knows he made his way into about a jillion of them. And he loved life beyond belief, as well as all that went with it.Meanwhile, we are left struggling and mourning. Let there be no doubt we wonder why our second son has been taken from us. But we believe God has a plan. We trust He knows what He is doing.

      — Bulinda & Jerry Ebanks,
      Cynthia Ebanks Wade & Phil Wade
      “It was Wednesday, November 17—in the
      MSC Flagroom. He had a sparkle in his eye when he talked about his music. I learned that he was a freshman aerospace engineering major, and I asked him if he planned on studying for his tests anymore that night. Again he smiled and told me that more than anything he would probably wind up at Bonfire to help with Stack. At that point, I could see the sparkle in his eye again.”
      “While I was at home playing Nintendo, he was out flying airplanes.”
      “Michael fully understood the secret to life: unlimited boundaries and boundaryless love. If we could all dream like he dreamed and love like he loved, our lives would be as fulfilling as his. I truly believe that he had mastered the secret of life at a very early age, and God was ready for him to move on to the next plateau.”
      “Mike always wore his blue Wal-Mart flip-flops to class.”
      “I remember how important your family was to you. I remember how you never changed to please others… It is sad to me that it took a tragedy to remind me how special it is to be connected to such a wonderful school with such wonderful people.”
      “In English class Michael would say such outlandish things as, ‘Due to the nature of this poem, it is obvious that Ralph Waldo Emerson had webbed feet.’ The teacher would question him so as to make him look ridiculous. Michael would always have something to say that made this obviously idiotic point seem valid. Michael was always prepared, always ready. So when that stack fell, I cannot believe that Michael fell, because Michael never fell. No, Michael flew—he flew right out of that pile of lumber and he has not come down yet. When I think about him, I am sad because I lost a friend, but a smile crosses my face and shivers run up my neck in knowing that he is doing the one thing he loved more than anything. From Michael’s death I have learned to cherish every conversation, every event, and to not care what others think. Most of all, I have learned to really love life. That is what Michael did best. He cherished life,and in turn, it cherished him.”
      “…I wish I could remember every time you made my problems go away. I wish I had told you all this more frequently when you were here, but I know in my heart you already knew all this.”
      “Those who knew him well are experiencing the loss of a friend described as having a great sense of humor, a tender heart, a brilliant mind, and a life-long love affair with the Aggies.”

    14. Jamie Lynn Hand ‘03

      Henderson, Texas

      Freshman,

      Environmental Design major

      Resident of Keathley Hall


      “Physically, I’m about 5’6”, blue eyes, hair color is…often changing…originally dark brown, but currently light brown/blonde. I think a good way to get an idea of who I am is to know what I like to do, so here are a few things that mold me into the person I am. I like: Softball…could I mention that I was on a State Champ softball team this past summer?…, Baseball, Football, Gymnastics, Sleeping… as late as possible…, Eating…especially pancakes, ice cream, Papa John’s pizza, chili hot dogs with mustard and relish, and anything with whipped cream…well, almost anything, Drawing…mainly actual objects instead of cartoon-like characters…, Painting…especially using paint markers to add some color to jam boxes and softball helmets…, Decorating, Watching Movies, Acting…putting on plays or skits for other people has been something my sisters and I have been doing for years, whether it was for a cousin’s birthday party or just something to do on a hot summer day…oh, by the way, I am the third daughter of four. My oldest sister, Shelley Mraz is a 29-year old CPA living in Temple, Texas; she is the one who interested me in this wonderful place called Aggieland—she’s a Fightin’ Texas Aggie Class of ’92. My other sisters, Melissa ’01 and Kristen ’04, are 20 and 17. I also enjoy: Swimming…especially in big ponds with wooden stands with hanging ropes to swing off and out onto the water…, Blading…although I had a bad incident at Corpus Christi involving roller blades with no brakes this summer…, Singing, Laughing, Hugging, Dancing…country and western is my favorite, but I love to dance to other kinds of music also…of course I will never forget the yellow camp dance!…I will have to admit, Fish Camp was the first time I was introduced to such dance moves as a butt floss and a pencil sharpener. As for what I want to be when I grow up, I’ve often answered a famous actress; however, my artistic skills and my desire to become a Fightin’ Texas Aggie have given me a desire to work toward a degree in Architecture, perhaps working to get into
      Graphic Design. If you were to ask other people about me, I will bet you they would say I’m easy to get along with, fun, and a bit like Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde the way I can be quiet and shy at one moment and loud and crazy the next.”

      – from Jamie’s application to be a Fish Camp counselor
      “Man, I’m so exhausted. I just got back from another full day in the woods. First Cut was a lot of fun…we were one of the dorms with the most freshman turnout…basically bonfire is a freshman bonfire…non-regs (non-corps people like me) are really involved in the building of bonfire and it’s so awesome to be a part of it. I wish I could be a crew chief…there can only be 2 girl leaders, but they are the ones who get us motivated about bonfire and are in charge of everything we do at cut. They make sure everybody’s involved, happy, safe, and they’re just really cool. There are also some really dumb traditions like we can’t touch their pots (helmets we have to wear out in the woods and when handling trees) or we have to push (do push ups). It’s fun. sometimes me and the other girls in our dorm will pull-out (say or do something in front of them that we’re not supposed to say or do) and we’ll have to hit the ground and start pushing. It’s just so awesome being out there at cut and everybody’s so motivated and working together to cut down trees and move them…it involves a lot of terms for the things that we have to do when moving a log, and we carry logs following the directions of the crew chiefs. it’s a lot of fun. I wish i could live in fhk another year at least because i kinda got some pride for this dorm. Well, I gotta get some homework done. tell daddy I love him… gonna go now, love ya lots!! bye mommy
      – Jamie’s email home, Monday, October 4, 1999

    15. Timothy Doran Kerlee, Jr ‘03

      Bartlett, Tennessee

      Sophomore

      Mechanical Engineering major

      Member of Squadron 16


      I’ll never forget Tim’s bright face and enthuiasm when I first met him at fish camp.

      His excitement to be an Aggie inspired our entire camp.

      “Help my buddies first.” . . . uttered Tim as he lay on the fallen stack. He then directed rescue workers to five others whom he could see before allowing them to free him.

      Eagle Scout Tim Kerlee was posthumously granted Boy Scout’s highest award, the MEDAL OF MERIT, for his heroic actions.

      There is no grander sight in all the world than that of a person fired with a great purpose, dominated by the love of Christ. That was Tim.

      He left us that legacy. Seize the day! Make your life extraordinary!

      He was always willing to help anyone.

      Whether he was teaching someone how to swing dance, tutoring someone in calculus, or organizing a campus clean-up, he’d always do it with a smile and never a complaint. He was a joy to be around and could make friends with anyone he met.

      I’ll never forget his encouragement, his fun-loving attitude, and the courage he displayed throughout his life.

      Tim was never afraid to be himself.

      He provided me with an example of how to live.

    16. Christopher Lee Heard ‘03

      Houston, Texas

      Freshman, Pre Engineering major

      Member of Company K-2


      Traditional • Fair • Confident • Competitive • Sociable • Music Lover • Cool • Well Groomed •  Instigator • Organizer • Wit With a Wink • Quiet Wisdom • Big Spender • Observant • Poser • Best Friend • Gentleman • Natural Leader • Outdoorsman • Tough • Family Oriented • Respectful • Country Music Dancer • Appreciative • Loyal • Loving • Mentor • U.S. Marine • Spontaneous • Self-Disciplined • Proud • Handsome

      Chris Said…
      “Daaaad, Mom, listen to this, you’ll love it!”
      “You have to make things count…before you can make things happen.”
      “Let me get my music.”
      “I believe that perseverance and audacity usually produce a winner.”
      “Life is only what you make of it.”
      “Blood is thicker than water.”

      Christopher Lee Heard was born in Sheridan, Wyoming on February 28th, 1980. The family moved to Texas when he was five years old, and he attended public schools in west Houston for his first nine years. Chris spent three and a half very rewarding high school years at The Marine Military Academy (MMA) in Harlingen, Texas.

      Chris was an achiever and worked long, hard hours to graduate among the top students in his high school. He did this while carrying the responsibilities and extra duties that his rank as Company Commander demanded. He attained his goal of earning a Corps scholarship to Texas A&M University and was looking forward to getting past his Fish semester in K- Company so he could become involved in a leadership role again. Chris’ determination and focus were absolute and set an example to inspire others.

      Academics and leadership were not all Chris was about. He had a warm personality and unusual enthusiasm. He displayed a strength of character that inspired the trust and respect of his peers. He accepted responsibility willingly and unselfishly helped others. He had a keen sense of humor and was a wry observationist. He loved all types of music, the beach, laughing, smoking cigars and drinking Corona with lime.

      Chris was a son that parents pray for and the best brother any older brother could wish for. The spirit of Christopher Lee Heard is that spark of anticipation that lives on in our hearts and makes us look forward to each new day.

      “We would stay up for hours just talking and laughing.”
      “During those trying times, I felt Chris pushing me, helping me.”
      “Chris was a pleasure to teach.”
      “Those kids owned that pool.”
      “Young women were attracted to Chris for the right reasons.”
      “He gave others strength.”
      “Chris had more best friends than most of us will ever have friends.”
      “He was larger than life.”
      “Chris was known as ‘The Professor’…a walking almanac.”
      “He’s got that twinkle in the eye.”

      Accomplishments

      Swim Champion • Boy Scout • Brown Belt – Okinawan Karatedo • National Honor Society • Mariner of the Year • President’s & Dean’s Honor Rolls • Alpha Company Commander Captain – JROTC & Swim Team • Youth Physical Fitness and Boxing Teams • National Sojourners’ Americanism Award • American Legion Bronze Scholastic Medal • Sharpshooter • MMA Outstanding Senior of the Year • Texas A&M Corps of Cadets Scholarship Recipient

      Remembering November 18th…

      Chris felt excitement in his heart that November night looking out over the lights of College Station and the campus from high up on stack. He had called home earlier that evening and told Mom & Dad about he and his roommate joining the Marines that afternoon. Nearly through his Fish semester, Chris couldn’t wait to get on with achieving more of his goals and was proud to be involved in the Bonfire tradition.

      When he felt the stack shift, Chris’ last words were to shout a warning to others working below him. As Chris passed upward in this great circle of life, we know his heart was content with the love of his family and knowledge of his own self worth. Although Chris’ memory lives in our hearts every day, we are all blessed with a special occasion each year on this date that reminds us of the bright spirits of he and eleven other fellow Aggies with a sparkling tribute across the night sky.

      — Les & Andrea Heard, Jason & Amy Heard

    17. Miranda Denise Adams ’02

      Santa Fe, Texas

      Sophomore

      Biomedical Sciences major

      Resident of Mosher Hall

      I can do everything through Christ who gives me strength. PHILIPPIANS 4:13

      “God’s hand is always there; once you grasp it, you’ll never want to let it go.” – Miranda Denise Adams

      Miranda,

      What a precious gift from God you were to us. You were a blessing in our lives from the day you were born, June 27, 1980. We will always remember your lovely, expressive eyes and beautiful, warm smile.

      You were excited and joyous about life and thrilled to be part of the Aggie family. You possessed the ‘Aggie Spirit’ deep within you. How very proud you were to be a member
      of the Fightin’ Texas Aggie Class of 2002.

      The measure of your life was not in the length, but in how you lived with integrity, enthusiasm, joy, and love. You were filled with God’s Spirit to live your faith. Your love of God and belief in His promise of eternal life continues to be an inspiration in our lives.

      We are very proud of you for the impact you had on so many lives. You live on in the kindness and joy you showed, the happiness you shared, and the love you brought into our lives. These memories are the treasures that we will cherish in our hearts forever. You are dearly loved and greatly missed by your family and friends.

      We will always celebrate your life. We love you Miranda.

      Kenny & Carolyn Adams,
      Mark Adams ’03,
      Greg, Kelly, Tyler Michelle & Gregory Adams

      Miranda attended Camp Briers Fish Camp in August 1998, where she
      shared her priorities as God, Family and Friends, and Academics.

      • 1998 Honor Graduate, Santa Fe High School
      • Biomedical Science Major
      • Mosher Bonfire Co-Chair 1999
      • Missouri Synod Lutheran

      “Since the first day I set foot on the Texas A&M campus, I fell in love with it. The atmosphere is absolutely wonderful and I couldn’t imagine attending another school. I admit that the work is very hard, but it is all worth it to get the famous Aggie Senior Ring.” – Miranda Denise Adams

    18. Nathan Scott West ‘02

      Bellaire, Texas

      Sophomore

      Ocean Engineering major

      Member of Company C-2

      God

      Heart to God, Hand to Man
      U.M. Army – Livingston, Mont Belvieu, Huntsville, San Marcos
      On my honor, I will do my best to do my duty to God and my country.

      I walked to the altar. I was alone when I began to pray. I prayed to the Lord to help me through times of temptation so I wouldn’t give in. I felt a feeling of warmth and security surround me and flow through me. At that moment, I knew for sure I would never be alone. When I opened my eyes I was surrounded by others and felt assured and strong. Afterward, I never felt weak, hopeless or alone again. I also believe I never will.

      – Scott West, 7th Grade Church Camp
      Family

      Scott, I had a lot of fun last weekend. Thanks for teaching me the true meaning of Aggie Spirit and what life is about. I love you. We will go out again soon.

      – Kristin West, November 20, 1999
      Dear Scott,
      This is a letter to tell you about your many good qualities. First, you are loving and sensitive. You are always ready with a hug or kiss. You are patient and kind with younger children. Even as a five or six year old, you could calm a crying baby. You are gentle and patient with animals. Second, you are very competent with tools. Any job that needs to be done, whether out in the yard or in the kitchen, will be worked on with good safety techniques until it is accomplished. Third, you are intelligent. You are interesting to talk to. You are a challenge to play games with. I know that you will someday make me proud when you decide how to use this special gift God gave you. Lastly, you are not afraid to try new things. You approach new skills with the attitude that you can do it and eventually you can.
      Love always,
      Mom, 1994
      The founder of our company once said, “Spend some, give some, and save some.”However, integrity is one of the most important scales by which one is measured by God and his peers.
      We love you!
      Granddad and Grandmother Lowrie
      December 1996
      We are so proud to have you as our grandson. We thank God for your life and the joy and happiness you brought us.
      With Love,
      Grandmom and Granddad West
      We lost Scott frequently, as his inquisitive nature frequently led him in directions only he knew about. After recovering him from unknown reaches at one Cub Scout campout and suitably chastising him for being lost, he replied, “I wasn’t lost. You just didn’t know where I was.” You knew where you were at A&M and I know where you are now. When I find the way, although the search will take a lifetime, I will look for you in your Father’s house.
      Love, Dad

      Friends

      Proud member of the Texas A&M Corps of Cadets
      Squadron 5 – 1998, Company C2 – 1999 “Werewolf”
      Scott proudly wore Corps Brass presented to him by his friend, an old Ag, Hal Sharp.

      “He was an Aggie,” the Rev. Mark Young said at the funeral at Bellaire United Methodist Church. “That about says it all, there, doesn’t it?”

      Dallas Morning News

      I hope, now, that you have some idea of how all those little things you did… said… were… had an almost inhuman power to touch lives. Every little smile you gave me seemed like a wealth of acceptance, trust and friendship.

      Ginger Price, November 19, 1999

      The next memory, the one I am so fond of, is watching him walk down the church hall in uniform, but the main thing I remember is his fresh Aggie haircut. I just had to rub his head! He was so proud to be an Aggie, and we were proud that he was so proud. It means a lot to a fellow Ag to see a new Aggie with so much pride.

      Laura Morman, November 20, 1999

      Of all the Eagles I have known, Scott had the best grasp of what being an Eagle is all about. He gave back to others what he learned.

      John Harris
      Scoutmaster, Troop 211
      Golden Arrow District Dinner, 2000

      Nathan is one of the most honorable individuals I’ve ever known.

      Garry Golub, pre-calculus teacher, Westbury High School

      I’ve made a lot of friends, but none compared to you.

      Your Best Friend, James Chiu, November 1992

      I love you man!

      – the last message in Scott’s email account, November 1999

    19. Reflection

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