Hundreds gathered for the dedication and ribbon cutting for the Kyle R. Wilson Elementary School in Woodbridge.
The 106,614 square foot building at 5710 Liberty Hill Court, off of Spriggs Road, was named for fallen Prince William firefighter Kyle Wilson.
According to county documents, Wilson was killed on-duty in 2007, when he became trapped in a burning Woodbridge home while looking for potential victims that could have been still inside the structure.
“Every day, first responders like Kyle, put their lives on the line for their communities. He made a courageous decision, and he paid the ultimate price….Kyle will be an inspiration to every student,” said Superintendent Dr. Steven Walts.
According to Prince William County Department of Fire and Rescue Chief Kevin McGee, Wilson’s death had a profound impact on firefighters across the United States, and led to changes in safety procedures for first responders.
“Kyle Wilson brought firefighters from all over our country together. Kyle, without exception, is the most well-known firefighter in the United States. No other firefighter has ever, in the history of our country, has had as much an impact on the national fire service…as I travel around the country, firefighters and fire chiefs tell me about the many changes that they’ve made because of Kyle,” said McGee.
Wilson grew up in Prince William County and attended the county’s public schools, according to Wilson’s sister Kelli Gray, who expressed excitement about the school’s opening.
“The amount of support and excitement for my brother’s school has been truly, truly overwhelming…it is so very important in today’s world that our youth learn to utilize kindness, compassion, hard work, commitment, and even teamwork to make our world a better place…we are looking forward to continuing Kyle’s legacy, and making wonderful memories here at Kyle Wilson Elementary,” said Gray.
The school will open on August 29 with all other Prince William schools.
