Plaques honor former Century students who died in Iraq

Two former Century High School students have plaques placed on the school’s walls in their honor.

The plaques were placed right by the school’s main entrance. They show Blake Stephens, who graduated in 2000, and Nick Gummersall, who graduated in 2002 — both died on duty in 2007. Their parents said they were protectors and the plaque’s location showcases that.

“They’re guarding that passage way in and out of the school, on each side here of the front entry,” said Kathleen Stephens, Blake’s mother.

The plaques are planned to serve as a reminder for Century High School students and faculty of the kinds of students that once walked their halls. Dave Treasure came up with the idea after speaking at Highland High School on Veterans Day.

“(Faculty, administration and students) will have a constant reminder that there is a human side to all of these conflicts,” Treasure said. “Regardless of what they see in a video game or on TV, there is a human aspect.”

Carol Park, Nick’s mother, agrees with Treasure.

“The plaque for me represents two sides of Nick. The side that went to high school and then the side of the military that he also loved,” Park said. “He loved Century, we had Nick’s funeral out here.”

Since both Nick and Blake attended Century High School when it first opened, their parents agree the plaques show the school’s heritage.

“The students that go through this year, or the students that go through 20 years from now, may not have any idea what kinds of things former students in this high school have done — except for these memorials,” said Trent Stephens, Blake’s father.

Principal Sheryl Brockett said the plaques mark a new tradition for the school, she just hoped there won’t be a need to put more up.

The recently opened BCS Dogs at Pine Ridge Mall was started by Blake’s brother in honor of him.