Community members join the remembrance in the courtyard south of the library at Northeast Lakeview College.
Matthew Cuevas
sac-ranger@student.alamo.edu
Cpl. Jason Santos of the Alamo Colleges police department was honored during the 9/11 commemorative ceremony at Northeast Lakeview College Sept. 11 for his exemplary service to the college.
Dr. Debbie Hamilton, vice president of student success, presented Santos a certificate of appreciation.
“I was very honored to get the award,” Santos said. “I took the award to recognize all the ones who have gone before us — police, fire, who have paid the ultimate price. I humbly accept it.”
The college’s office of student development, leadership, and activities produced the ceremony held in the courtyard south of the library.
Clouds looked as if rain could bring an end to the festivities before they began, but the event took place as planned.
The ceremony was open for the first time to the communities of Live Oak and Universal City.
Members of the Live Oak Fire Department were recognized for their service to the community. Also in attendance were members of the community organization Seniors Of Live Oak.
Crystal Willis, associate director of student success, was pleased by the turnout of students and community members estimated at about 100 people.
“It went very well,” she said. “This was the first year that we actually opened it up for the community, and other than the weather, it was beautiful.”
With the college’s proximity to Randolph Air Force Base, Willis said it is important for students to honor those who serve and protect, especially on 9/11.
“We have a responsibility as a campus to definitely recognize those who serve in the military, and in our community. But not just recognize it, also to make sure that we pay homage to the people that have been taking care of and helping us,” she said.
The ceremony concluded with Santos lowering the college, Texas, and American flags to half-staff and a moment of silence to remember those who died 14 years ago in the largest terrorist attack on American soil.
Nursing sophomore Eric Mota was one of the students who attended.
“It’s important to keep in mind those who are serving and protecting us,” he said. “I think that’s worth 30 minutes of my time.”
