CCHS Soccer Field Named After Alumnus Chad P. Dermyer

Columbia School District’s focus on excellence gives our students a positive environment for learning today, leading tomorrow.  Alumnus Chad P. Dermyer was a leader and excelled at Columbia Central. Chad participated in many events and activities while at Columbia Central High School, including the Golden Eagle Marching Band and varsity soccer.

After graduating from Columbia Central, Chad Dermyer served four years in the U.S. Marine Corps, before joining the Police Department in Jackson, Michigan.  Chad then served with the City of Newport News Police Department, prior to attending and graduating from the Virginia State Police Academy in November 2014.  As a Virginia State Trooper, Chad first served in the areas around Newport News and Hampton, and then received a transfer to the state police Counter-Terrorism and Criminal Interdiction Unit.

On March 31^st, 2016, Chad put on his Virginia State Police uniform, and with a smile on his face and a positive spring in his step, he headed out to take part in a training exercise at the bus station in Richmond, Virginia.  Chad’s life ended there, tragically while on duty on March 31, 2016.   He is survived by his wife and two young children.

When talking to his former teachers and soccer coach, they said that Chad was a delight to have in class and that he always had a big smile.  They characterized Chad Dermyer as the ideal student, always positive, cheerful, and a diligent worker.  He took time to speak with others, was very talented, and was humble about his abilities.  Similarly, after the tragic incident, Virginia State Police Superintendent Colonel W. Steven Flaherty talked about Chad’s positive character and high level of integrity.

Earlier this year, the Columbia School District Board of Education responded to a request by the Dermyer family and named the Columbia Central High School soccer field after Chad because of his history of leadership, exemplary character, and positive work ethic.  The CCHS Athletic Boosters funded a new scoreboard bearing the name of the field.  Many of the Columbia community members and friends of Chad’s have donated to erect a sign near the entrance of the field.

Please join the Columbia School District as we dedicate the Chad P. Dermyer Memorial Soccer Field on Saturday, October 7th at 1 pm.  Please come to honor Chad and celebrate his life! In memory of Chad, the Golden Eagle Marching Band will play the National Anthem and the CCHS Fight Song.  Jackson Radio Works will do a remote broadcast before and during the event.  There will be testimonials, and a short program, followed by the alumni soccer game.  Refreshments will be provided and there will be commemorative t-shirts for sale.  For more information call 5175926641.