Holly Shue

I wrote this poem today, in honor of Riley. I had math with him only an hour before he made the ultimate sacrifice.

The Ultimate Sacrifice

When they heard shots fired,
Most ran away.

They knew in an instant,
They would never forget that day.

While most in the classroom
Felt shock and fear,

Riley gave no thought for himself
And jumped into gear.

The gunman had taken
Reed’s life away.

So Riley decided,
No one else should pay.

He took down the shooter,
Not worried for his own life.

And just as in the military,
Made the ultimate sacrifice.

Let us, as Niner Nation,
Not forget the life he gave.

We stand together, stronger,
And, in doing so, we’re brave.

~Holly Shue
UNCC Student