Tragedy leads to show of love

Students at Flomaton High School created a poster Monday that simply says 'We Are One" to show their support, love and prayers to the students at T.R. Miller High School in Brewton following a tragic event Sunday at Fort Pickens that has left one T.R. Miller freshman clinging to his life.

Susan Teel, leader of the Resource Education for the National Park Service, said four swimmers near Fort Pickens were transported to Pensacola hospitals following a near-drowning Sunday afternoon. She said two of the students were transported helicopter and two were transported by ambulance. Teel said three of the students have been released from the hospital while a fourth was still listed in critical condition Wednesday.

Apparently five T.R. Miller freshmen were at the beach late Sunday afternoon when some fell victim to the rip currents. Names of the students have not been released.

Dr. Kenneth Varner, superintendent of the Brewton City School System, said additional counselors were on hand Monday to help students deal with the tragedy. He said in addition to the counselors, coaches and teachers were also available to talk with the students.

"We used people on staff because sometimes students want to talk to someone they know," Varner said. "We want to keep students in a routine, but those struggling with this with will get the help they need."

Sources said five students were at the beach a day after competing in the sectional track meet at T.R. Miller Friday and Saturday. It appears one student got into trouble and others tried to help.

George Brown, principal of Flomaton High School, said he was approached by students Monday morning wanting to do something to show their support and prayers to T.R. Miller.

He said the cheerleaders created the poster which was then signed by the students at Flomaton.

"The kids initiated it, which makes me proud," Brown said. "They wanted to let them know they were thinking of them."

Brown delivered the poster to T.R. Miller Principal Charles Alford Monday afternoon during a softball tournament. The poster is now hanging on the wall at T.R. Miller.

"We've got it hanging on the wall and I sent Mr. Brown a picture," Alford said.

Alford added that students and faculty understand the competition on the playing field and both schools want to beat the other. But said something like this brings them all together.

"Different schools, different school systems, but still we are all one big family," Alford said. "We all appreciate them reaching out during this time."

Alford added that W.S. Neal High School students also reached out in a similar fashion to show their support to the T.R. Miller family.