Virginia Tech: Peace and Healing

On April 16, 2007, tragedy struck in Virginia and reverberated around the world.

On April 16, 2007, tragedy struck in Virginia and reverberated around the world. A single gunman opened fire at two different locations on the campus of Virginia Tech University, killing 32 people and wounding 25 others. At the time, the shooting was nearly unprecedented in its scope and horror.

A student holds a candle during a candlelight vigil at Virginia Tech, April 17, 2007 (AP Photo/The Roanoke Times, Christina O'Connor)

The campus was left in deep mourning, and the rest of the nation mourned with them. Legacy provided a Guest Book to honor all victims, as well as individual Guest Books for each of the victims. The Guest Books were inundated with thousands of messages, a massive outpouring of sympathy and support from near and far.

Today, as we remember the lives lost on April 16, 2007, we wish the Virginia Tech community continued peace and healing. We commemorate the anniversary by sharing the words of just a few of the many thousands who took the time to express their condolences that day.

As a '06 Virginia Tech graduate, I cannot fathom the events that occurred there today. The rather beautiful, tranquil campus will never be the same. To all of the students, teachers and families, my deepest sympathies go to you. Hokies are a proud people who overcome, even in the wake of disaster. Pray and remember all those who were lost and injured on this dark day.

—Joe Eichorn, Charlotte, North Carolina

Sophomore Kenneth Erisman holds a candle as he pays his respects at a makeshift memorial at Virginia Tech, Wednesday, April 18, 2007 (AP Photo / Mary Altaffer)