The night was black as coal when 58 people showed up to their hallowed ground, preparing a tradition that dated back to 1907. Over 1 million pounds of logs were stacked and ready to burn when the horrific sound of creaking began. Then, it happened: what sounded like a gunshot, the middle structure of the bonfire snapped in half, collapsing within seconds. The ensuing dust and debris field darkened the lights illuminating the once structure. Cadets, knowing they would face certain combat after graduation, stood frozen at the scene. Many of those who heard the warning screams survived; those on the stack who screamed the warnings didn’t survive. The horror played out, in real time, and people from all over Texas traveled to the campus of Texas A&M to help. Texas ended up canceling the Hex rally that year, and opted for a unity event. The UT Tower was darkened out of respect for those whom had been lost. During halftime, the Texas Band would play “Amazing Grace” and “TAPS”.
Tonight, at 2:42 AM, will mark 25 years since 12 Aggies took their last breath.
Tonight, at 2:42 AM, will mark 25 years since 12 Aggies took their last breath.
- Miranda Denise Adams ’02
- Christopher D. Breen ’96
- Michael Stephen Ebanks ’03
- Jeremy Richard Frampton ’99
- Jamie Lynn Hand ’03
- Christopher Lee Heard ’03
- Timothy Doran Kerlee Jr. ’03
- Lucas John Kimmel ’03
- Bryan A. McClain ’02
- Chad A. Powell ’03
- Jerry Don Self ’01
- Nathan Scott West
