College Station, Texas
It was a long-standing tradition around Texas A&M University. Each year, the Aggies prepared for a football game against the University of Texas Longhorns by burning a bonfire.
In 1999, that tradition came to a halt when the structure collapsed during construction, killing 12 students and injuring others.
What replaced the heap of logs, eventually, was a memorial created to honor the bonfire tradition and those that were killed.
Another tradition around the university is Fish Camp, where new student arrivals become familiar with Aggie traditions.
Today, that tradition is being called into question following the release of some photos depicting unusual behavior around the memorial site by Fish Camp counselors.
Since the release of the photos, the University is working hard at damage control. However, for some, the university isn’t doing enough.
"This isn't something that Fish Camp condones or recommends," said Max Cadena, who is the Fish Camp Head Director and also a senior at A&M.
Cadena says they're working on getting in contact with all students involved.
"I understand where people are coming from, where these emotions are coming from and I you know definitely feel those same emotions. But I also have to look to my organization in making sure that I uphold it to the best ability that I can," said Cadena.
The photos are believed to have been taken this past weekend when counselors were in town for a work day.
Rusty Thompson, the Director of Student Activities, says Fish Camp officials will be handling the response and possible punishment.
They've not decided yet if the counselors will be stopped from participating in the freshmen orientation camp.
"I'm not able to speak for the students on as to why they selected that location. I know now looking back on it the students regret their decision to take the pictures there," said Thompson.
University officials say the counselors involved will be writing apologies to the family members of the fallen.
More than 6,500 freshmen have signed up for Fish Camp with the first session starting July 30th.
Fish Camp has 984 counselors this year and it is tradition to take pictures around campus prior to the camp.
Is it Disrespectful or just kids having fun?
While the university is at it, it may want to take a look at this site, which also depicts unique photos from students.
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