I'm 17 and a junior at Bellingham High School. Back in June of 1999, I was a first-grader at Roosevelt Elementary School, alongside Wade and Stephen.

I remember we'd go out at recess and play tag with all the other kids. It seems as if it was just last year that we lost them.

I lived in ground zero of the explosion, 2402 Kentucky St. My family was told by multiple government agencies that our duplex was the second closest structure to the explosion zone. As a result of our proximity, we were displaced, considering the walls of our house were black from smoke damage.

To this day it seems like that entire tragedy never happened, and I know my peers feel likewise. Let me just say that Wade, Stephen, and Liam have been missed greatly. Rest In Peace, until we meet again.

Reach DEAN KAHN at dean.kahn@bellinghamherald.com or call 715-2291.