June 4, 2019
Dear Friends of Draper Aden Associates:
The events that occurred in Virginia Beach on Friday are horrific and incredibly disheartening. The Engineers’ Creed states that we will place “the public welfare above all other considerations.” As an individual who has spent all 44 years of his career trying to uphold this standard, I am at a loss that this type of tragedy has befallen the engineering community and the City of Virginia Beach.
Although it is difficult to know what to do at a time like this, there is no doubt that the victims leave behind families and loved ones who will suffer financial burdens in the future. The United Way of Hampton Roads has set up a fund to receive money for the victims’ loved ones. Donations can be made at https://unitedwayshr.org/vabeach/. Additionally, the City of Virginia Beach has created a website detailing the upcoming Memorial Services and Volunteer Opportunities. That website can be found here: https://loveforvb.com/.
Words cannot express the sadness we all feel over yet another episode of senseless loss of life. We grieve with the families who lost loved ones and with the entire community of Virginia Beach. Our deepest gratitude goes out to the police, first responders, and the co-workers who rushed into the line of fire to help save lives.
Sincerely,
DRAPER ADEN ASSOCIATES
Jeffrey N. Lighthiser, P.E.
President/CEO
