UPDATE: A somber gathering in San Bernardino commemorated the 10th anniversary of the tragic mass shooting that shocked the community on Dec. 2, 2015. Early this morning, around 100 attendees converged at the Curtain of Courage memorial, uniting to honor the 14 victims of the attack that claimed the lives of many local employees.
The crowd, slightly larger than in previous years, included family members of the victims and local officials, highlighting a profound sense of loss that remains palpable even after a decade. “The passage of time does not lessen the impact of that day,” stated Supervisor Curt Hagman during a poignant ceremony.
During the event, the emotional weight was evident as attendees paid their respects. Liam Ortiz, son of survivor Kevin Ortiz, moved the crowd as he placed a flower on the engraved names of the victims.
Hiwet Haile, widow of Isaac Gebreslassie Amanios, shared a heartfelt embrace with fellow attendees, while tears streamed down the face of Josie Gonzales, San Bernardino County Assessor-Recorder-County Clerk, as she reflected on the ongoing pain the community faces. “Think of all the people who are not here,” she urged, emphasizing the lasting scars left by the tragedy.
The ceremony featured a symbolic bell tolling 14 times, each ring serving as a reminder of the lives lost. Doug Duke, chaplain for the city, led this solemn tribute.
Earlier today, community members participated in a brief public ceremony, which was also streamed online, featuring a moment of silence and a memorial video to honor the victims.
The Curtain of Courage, opened in 2022, stands as a testament to resilience. Its design includes 14 alcoves representing the slain, each adorned with colored glass panels chosen by family members. Nearby, an informational plaque recounts the tragic events of that day in multiple languages.
As the community reflects on the past, Gonzales emphasized the importance of courage and compassion. “We never give up, we never back down,” she affirmed, encouraging attendees to honor the lost by embodying the strength shown over the past decade.
The 2015 mass shooting unfolded when Syed Rizwan Farook and his wife, Tashfeen Malik, opened fire during a meeting at the Inland Regional Center, resulting in 14 fatalities and 22 injuries. A comprehensive memorial effort, including the Curtain of Courage, aims to foster healing within the community.
As the day continues, various memorials across the Inland Empire are honoring the victims, reminding the world of the scars left behind and the enduring strength of the San Bernardino community. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as the community comes together to remember and heal.
