In a poignant display of camaraderie, students from Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School have rallied to ensure that their fallen peer, Peter Wang, receives a military burial. Wang, a 15-year-old member of the Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (JROTC), heroically sacrificed his life during the tragic mass shooting that unfolded at the school. As the chaos erupted, he held a door open, allowing fellow students and teachers to escape, ultimately paying the ultimate price for his bravery.
The devastating incident, attributed to 19-year-old Nikolas Cruz, claimed the lives of 17 individuals. Witnesses, including Wang’s close friend, Aiden Ortiz, recounted his final moments. “He was directing others to safety when he was struck by gunfire,” Ortiz shared with local news. “I want everyone to recognize that he died a hero. He saved countless lives.” Wang’s aspiration was to attend the prestigious West Point military academy, a dream he held dearly.
Dressed in his JROTC uniform during the attack, Wang is remembered not just for his courage but also for his kind spirit. His cousin, Mia Lin, described him as a source of joy, someone who epitomized kindness and selflessness. “He was like the big brother everyone wished they had,” Lin remarked.
In light of his selfless actions, Wang’s classmates have initiated a petition on the White House’s “We the People” platform, requesting a military burial for him. This petition seeks to honor Wang’s dedication and valor, which would include a formal ceremony complete with a flag presentation. Currently, the petition has garnered over 17,000 signatures, but it requires more than 86,000 to be considered. Nevertheless, many hope that the government will acknowledge Wang’s sacrifice, regardless of the total signatures.
As the community mourns, the stories of other heroes from that day are emerging. Assistant football coach Aaron Feis and geography teacher Scott Beigel also lost their lives while protecting students. The tragedy has ignited a passionate movement among the surviving students, who are determined to advocate for essential gun reforms in America. “We are going to be the kids you read about in textbooks,” stated student Emma Gonzalez, emphasizing their commitment to making a change.
In summary, Peter Wang’s heroic actions during a tragic event have inspired his classmates to seek recognition for his sacrifice through a military burial. The community continues to heal, while simultaneously advocating for necessary changes to prevent future tragedies.