11-18-1999 We Are the Aggies, The Aggies Are We.

Today is a big day for Aggies everywhere. It's a day we remember our Fallen Brothers. It's a day we unite as Texas A&M Aggies to remember one of the greatest tragedies in Texas A&M's history. November 18, 1999 the bonfire collapsed as it was being built. The bonfire used to be one of the most recognizable symbols of Aggieland. It symbolized the Aggies' burning desire to beat t.u. Now, it symbolizes rememberance and prayer for those 12 Aggies that lost their lives at 2:42a.m.

This day is especially memorable for me. I was in 6th grade when this happened, and my teacher, Mrs. Adams, lost her daughter in this accident. Miranda Adams was one of the fallen 12. When I woke up that morning 11 years ago, I remember being in shock, and crying for my teacher for her loss. It wasn't until 5 years later that I would really understand what it meant to be a part of the Aggie Family. In 2004 I was a freshman at Texas A&M University. This was the year that the Bonfire Memorial was completed, and the first time Aggies everywhere in body and spirit would come together at this grand Memorial to remember.

Each pillar represents one of the Fallen and faces in the direction of their hometown.

Aggies join at 2:42am to sing The Spirit of Aggieland on November 18. This is why I am proud to be an Aggie. One of the most touching moments of my life.

Some may boast of prowess bold
Of the school they think so grand
But there’s a spirit can ne’er be told
It’s the Spirit of Aggieland

We are the Aggies, the Aggies are we
True to each other as Aggies can be
We’ve got to fight boys
We’ve got to fight!
We’ve got to fight for Maroon and White

After they’ve boosted all the rest
Then they will come and join the best
For we are the Aggies, the Aggies are we
We’re from Texas AMC

We will always remember.

11-18-1999