College Columbine Reflection Seven: Moment of Silence
As prearranged, I met Rahel at Hancock and we went to the Drillfield together, along with several of her friends. As we passed Buruss, we saw the orange and maroon balloons gathered under netting.
Most of the student body was present, as people poured in around Buruss, War Memorial Chapel, under Main Eggleston Arch, and down East Campell stairway. Though I recognized many, I only greeted those standing close to me.
The first bell strike, amplified by speakers, was painfully loud. The television cameramen stood shoulder to shoulder at the front of the crowd, and traced each white balloon in unison.
A few Hokes photographed the first or second balloons, and then stood still and silently with the rest. Throughout all thirty-two tolls and releases, the news photographers moved through the crowd taking pictures of our faces, sometimes from sixteen inches away.
Our cameras came back out for the mass release. We did not speak until the balloons were clear of the Drillfield. Then as had become customary, we went through several rounds of the Hokie call, exchanged hugs and good wishes, and dispersed.
Most of the student body was present, as people poured in around Buruss, War Memorial Chapel, under Main Eggleston Arch, and down East Campell stairway. Though I recognized many, I only greeted those standing close to me.
The first bell strike, amplified by speakers, was painfully loud. The television cameramen stood shoulder to shoulder at the front of the crowd, and traced each white balloon in unison.
A few Hokes photographed the first or second balloons, and then stood still and silently with the rest. Throughout all thirty-two tolls and releases, the news photographers moved through the crowd taking pictures of our faces, sometimes from sixteen inches away.
Our cameras came back out for the mass release. We did not speak until the balloons were clear of the Drillfield. Then as had become customary, we went through several rounds of the Hokie call, exchanged hugs and good wishes, and dispersed.