Students honored the memory of 2006 graduate Darren E. Tate, who lost his life in service to our country on July 8, 2009. 

The parents of Tate were on campus to remember their fallen son with students and faculty members.   Tate is remembered at CHS as a young man with an awesome smile and a heart for helping others.

According to information provided by the history department, Tate was a Naval Aviation Ordnance man, serving aboard the USS Iwo Jima.  In May 2008, he volunteered for a tour of duty in Afghanistan.  In Kabul, he worked as a mentor for the Afghan Army training soldiers at the National Ammunition Depot.  His performance of duty in combat zone resulted in 100 percent mission completion rate for the ammunition depot he managed.

Due to exceptional meritorious service to the United States, Tate was awarded the Bronze star Medal.  He also received the National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Global War on Terror Service Medal, NATO medal, and Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal.