Sierra Nevada Job Corps Center (SNJCC) students were recognized for their part in helping during the September 16 tragedy at the National Championship Air Races. Martin-Ross Investigations and Security held a recognition ceremony for the 46 students on Wednesday, September 28. Martin-Ross works with the Air Races to provide security and crowd control for the event and held the ceremony to thank the students for helping their community. Also in attendance were Washoe County Undersheriff Todd Vinger and Reno Police Department Sergeant Kim Bradshaw to show their support of the students’ efforts. 

Sixteen Homeland Security students initially responded after the crash on Friday, September 16. They set up a perimeter to allow the quick entry and safe exit of emergency vehicles and event attendees. Thirty students also volunteered over the weekend, controlling entry to sensitive areas, helping vendors and providing support in various needed capacities. 

“These students performed with the utmost professionalism during a time of extreme emergency,” Martin-Ross Executive Director Jason Patterson said. “They were concerned with the safety of the public and ensured that medical professionals could get to those who so urgently needed their help.” 

Patterson’s words were echoed by Undersheriff Vinger, who shared that he saw SNJCC students helping with the entry and exit of emergency vehicles when he first got out to the scene of the crash. Their help made it easy for him and other emergency personnel to get through the crowd and to the victims quickly. 

SNJCC Homeland Security students routinely help with many large-scale events in the area. They have also been part of the Washoe County Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program for more than three years. It was because of this experience the students were able to use their comprehensive crisis and emergency training for the benefit of their community during the Air Races. 

Each student received a certificate of commendation for their service.  The ceremony was covered by local news stations KTVN Channel 2 and KRNV Channel 4.  The story also showed up on MSNBC.com. 

The center is truly glad its students could be of service and is resolved to continue to help in times of extreme crisis and need.