Large crowd gathers to mourn attack victims

By Kurt Esposito
Assistant Campus Editor

Some stood up and some sat down. Some held candles and some did not — because there were not enough.

They filled Slayter Hill to capacity. They came to be together.

Approximately 5,000 members of the Purdue community turned out Wednesday night for a candle light vigil held to honor the victims and their families who were affected by Tuesday's tragedy.

"It's good to know so many people care," said Sara Ess, a senior in the School of Science.

Even though some students left after the scheduled speeches and musical performances, many stayed to form a circle and sing patriotic and religious songs.

Jessica Cavallo, Purdue Student Government executive director of operations and organizer of the event, said the circle and singing was planned as part of the event. "This ending makes it all worthwhile."

PSG organized the event and distributed 2,200 candles, not enough for those who attended.

The night started with the sound of "Taps" being played; it was followed with a poem about peace and then a moment of silence as the candles began to be lit.

West Lafayette Mayor Sonya Margerum was impressed by the crowd and all the lit candles. "It seems to me that there is light at the end of the dark week."

Grant Lohse, president of the Interfraternity Council, said as he addressed the crowd, "This is a beautiful and amazing site."

Lohse spoke of a student reaction to the tragic events and the Purdue community's resolve.

He told the story of the Heavilon Bell Tower that burned down in 1894. Then-Purdue president, James Smart, swore to rebuild the tower one brick higher. The tower was rebuilt — nine bricks higher.

Lohse said this story should serve as a rallying cry. "Build yourselves, build Purdue and build America nine bricks higher."

Purdue president Martin Jischke also addressed the crowd, calling the events of Tuesday an attack on what Americans hold dear.

He commended those who gave blood and asked that everyone at Purdue come together and help each other during these times.

He said people have reacted to the events the way they should. "Shock and mourning are important emotions that should not be suppressed."

But Jischke warned against letting intolerance, bigotry and hatred overcome the University. He asked that everyone fight against those evils everywhere.

• Student body president Brenda Shea announced that yellow ribbons will be distributed around campus over to next few days to commemorate those lost in the attacks as part of America Cares — Unification of Our Generation. Students can pick up the ribbons at the PSG office located in Stewart Center Room G6.

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CAMPUS DESK PHONE:
(765) 743-1111 ext. 253

Campus editor: Laura Pelner

Assistant campus editors: Kurt Esposito, Dave Stephens

To send a letter to the editor, please email opinions@purdueexponent.org