The Hamilton FFA Chapter’s road to the Mississippi FFA state competition came to an unexpected standstill when its bus began leaking diesel in the middle of the highway. With just hours to spare, members found themselves stranded in Official Dress and parked on the roadside with no clear way forward.
Bus driver Jason West acted quickly, inspecting the situation and determining the hard truth that the bus wasn’t going anywhere.
Jason West and Caleb Thompson assess the damage. In this moment, the road to state nearly ended, and the rescue began.
What could’ve been the end of a competition season turned into a powerful moment of unity.
As Leake Central Transportation Director Caleb Thompson passed by on his way to the same competition, he noticed the situation and didn’t hesitate to pull over. After confirming the serious mechanical issue, he contacted Leake Central FFA advisor Daxton Fairchild, who had been en route in a driver’s education car. Without a second thought, Fairchild turned around, secured another bus from Leake Central and came to the rescue — ensuring every Hamilton FFA member made it safely to the state competition.
“Our district transportation director saw Hamilton’s bus on the side of the road and was quick-witted enough to think of that solution,” says Fairchild. “I wouldn’t have known they needed help without his communication. I was simply glad to be in a position to help and to get everyone to the competition safely.
“Our FFA community is service-minded, and helping when we have the chance is part of our duty to the motto of ‘Living to Serve.’ Supporting each other outside of competition matters — not just because it’s what good humans do, but because any of us could be in need someday. We do our best to help when we can.”
Thanks to Leake Central’s quick action and generosity, Hamilton FFA made it to state — maybe a little behind schedule, but all the more grateful.
Hamilton FFA is deeply thankful because what Leake Central did wasn’t required or expected, but it made all the difference. In a moment that could’ve ended in disappointment, it gave others a way forward. The chapter didn’t just offer a ride; it provided a reminder of what real leadership and community look like.
It’s easy to talk about service in a motto or a mission statement, but it’s something else entirely to live it when no one’s watching. Leake Central lived it out that day. Because of this, Hamilton FFA got to walk into state competition not just as competitors, but as witnesses to what the FFA brotherhood truly means.
Hamilton FFA will never forget that act of generosity or take it lightly. Thanks to Leake Central, its members know firsthand what it means to show up when it counts.
