Aiken County Career & Technology Center HOSA Chapter

On September 11, 2015 the Aiken County Career Center HOSA planned and implemented an event for the National Day or Service and Remembrance.  We were joined by several organizations at the career center that assisted with coordinating this day: Fire and Emergency Management, Criminal Justice, AC3 Media (Media Technology), CAD (Computer Aided Drafting), Machine Tool and FCCLA (Fashion, Design & Apparel).

The HOSA students created two rose gardens with benches in the courtyard marked by plaques: one to remember all lives lost on September 11, 2001 and one to honor all our local First Responders.  The creation of the gardens was completed with assistance from a generous donation by SC HOSA, a Lowes Toolbox Grant and Cold Creek Nursery in Aiken, SC.

We were honored to have over fifty local Firemen, EMS and Public Safety to celebrate this day.   Bryson Fulmer, junior HOSA student welcomed the guests.  The Aiken County Sheriff’s Office Color Guard posted the colors.  Yomalli Gaona, junior HOSA students lead the Pledge of Allegiance.  Ms. Ella Gardener, Medical Reserve Corp spoke, followed by Mr. Paul Matthews, Aiken Emergency Management.  A moment of Silence was held to remember the fallen.  During the Retiring of Colors, Taps was played followed by Amazing Grace on the bagpipes.  Our guests were invited to the multipurpose room for a small reception as members of FCCLA served.  All guests were given a 911 Memorial lapel pin.

The ACCTC HOSA students were honored to be a part of this Day of Service & Remembrance and are looking forward to how they can continue this event on an annual basis.