UPDATE: San Bernardino commemorates the 10th anniversary of the devastating mass shooting that took 14 lives on December 2, 2015. Early this morning, about 100 people gathered at the Curtain of Courage memorial to honor the victims and reflect on the lasting impact of the tragedy.
The memorial event took place at the San Bernardino County Government Center, bringing together family members of the victims and county staff. Supervisor Curt Hagman addressed the crowd, stating, “The passage of time does not lessen the impact of that day.” The emotional gathering highlighted the community’s ongoing pain and resilience.
Among those present was Liam Ortiz, son of survivor Kevin Ortiz, who placed a flower on the memorial, marking a poignant moment for many. Attendees included Josie Gonzales, the San Bernardino County Assessor, who expressed the deep scars that still affect the community. “Think of all the people who are not here,” she said, emphasizing the collective grief that persists.
The solemn ceremony featured the ringing of a bell 14 times, symbolizing each victim lost in the attack. Doug Duke, the city’s chaplain, led this tribute, reminding the crowd of the profound loss felt throughout the region.
The tragedy occurred during a meeting of the Inland Regional Center when Syed Rizwan Farook and Tashfeen Malik opened fire, killing 14 and injuring 22 others. The community continues to grapple with the aftermath, as evidenced by the larger turnout this year compared to previous anniversaries.
The Curtain of Courage memorial, opened in 2022, serves as a powerful tribute, featuring 14 alcoves, each dedicated to a victim. Family members selected the colors and inscriptions for each alcove, creating a personal space for remembrance. A plaque recounting the events of December 2, 2015, is displayed in multiple languages, ensuring the story remains alive.
At today’s event, community members shared heartfelt embraces, tears, and prayers, reinforcing the bonds formed in the wake of tragedy. The atmosphere was filled with both sorrow and strength, as attendees recalled the courage shown by the victims and survivors alike.
As the community reflects on this painful milestone, they continue to advocate for healing and remembrance. With memorials across the region, including multiple tributes in the Inland Empire, San Bernardino is united in honoring those who were lost and supporting those who remain.
The ceremony concluded with a virtual component, allowing even more people to participate in a moment of silence and remembrance, emphasizing that the memory of the victims continues to resonate deeply within the community.
For those who wish to remember and honor the victims, the Curtain of Courage stands as a testament to resilience and hope, echoing the call to live with courage and compassion. As the community moves forward, they remain committed to ensuring that the lessons learned from this tragedy are never forgotten.
