The events that occurred at Sandy Hook Elementary School only a month ago shook the entire nation, and indeed, many are still coming to terms with the grim reality of one of the worst mass murders in US history. As people desperately search for reasons why anyone would be compelled to commit such a senselessly violent act, the need to try to make some sense out of the aftermath is overwhelming. Millions of people from all over the country and the world have given their tireless aid and support to those that have suffered the greatest of losses, and the outpouring of love and compassion comes from every conceivable place — even the SCUBA industry.
Yesterday, January 19, 2013, a group of divers from 5 states gathered at Pennsylvania’s Dutch Springs to participate in the Sandy Hook Memorial Dive. Though water and air temperatures were hovering around 40F, 26 divers descended to the top of a sunken school bus in 50 feet of water to hold a candlelight vigil (with glow sticks) for the lives lost at Sandy Hook Elementary. A permanent memorial plaque was placed on the bus in honor of the victims, and a moment of silence was observed to reflect on the tragedy that befell 26 innocent children and adults on that fateful day. LeisurePro’s own store manager Ben Teichberg was one of the participants, and kindly gave us his account of the event to share with all of you.
The entire event was organized thanks to the kind people at Newton Underwater Search and Rescue, and in addition to LeisurePro’s sponsorship, many gear manufacturers donated merchandise for a raffle to raise money for those affected by the terrible events at Sandy Hook Elementary, including Cressi, Henderson, Scubapro, Sherwood, and Princeton Tec, to name just a few. All the proceeds from the raffle, as well as Dutch Springs’ entrance fees, were donated to the memorial relief fund. With the support of the SCUBA community, the Sandy Hook Memorial Dive became just one of the many examples of the good that exists in the world.
Images via Ben Teichberg and Judy Dronzek
More power to leisure pro and my warmest thanks ..
We did a Sandy Hook dive too! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4qTeYQ3eeX8
Such a classy bunch of people at LeisurePro to sponsor this kind of event kudos to you and more divers should see the flag that was done with NUSAR & LeisurePro – Can you post it?
Hmm…I actually didn’t get a picture of the flag along with all the others. If you have it, or know someone who does, I’d be happy to add it to the article and credit the photographer!