Cheers for Missy

Posted: August 01, 2012

AURORA, Colo., the small town rocked by the mass shootings in a movie theater 12 days ago needed something to rally around.

That something is swimmer Missy Franklin.

The 17-year-old, who attends Aurora's Regis Jesuit High School, won a gold medal in the 100-meter backstroke and swam a leg in the bronze-medal winning 4 x 100 freestyle relay team.

After the shootings, which took place at a screening of the "Dark Knight Rises," Franklin dedicated her Olympic performances to her home state saying she was "shaken" by the incident.

On Tuesday, Aurora mayor Steve Hogan said the town was grateful for her thoughtfulness.

"For Missy to take time in the midst of her finest moment to think about her hometown and how she can help in its healing is an incredible statement about her character," Hogan said. "It certainly means a lot to Aurora to know that Missy cares, and we are proud of her achievements."

Franklin, who lives in a suburb of Aurora, is competing in the 100 meter freestyle qualifying on Wednesday.

Colorado prosecutors have charged suspect James Holmes with 24 counts of murder, two each for the 12 people killed, and 116 counts of attempted murder, two each for the 58 injured.

- Tom Mahon

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