WesternU’s 9/11 memorial emphasizes service and unity
Western University of Health Sciences’ Military Medical Student Association (MMSA) held its annual 9/11 memorial service on the WesternU California campus on Sept. 11, 2025, with representatives from the Pomona Police Department and Los Angeles County Fire Department in attendance. The service honored those who died on Sept. 11, 2001, and those who serve as first responders. Guest speakers reminded attendees about the importance of unity and about the vital role WesternU plays in shaping future front-line responders.
College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific (COMP) student, MMSA President and Army 2nd Lt. Peter Kim served as the master of ceremonies. COMP student Felicia Delgadillo performed the National Anthem and Karl Wegner with Bugles Across America closed the service by performing “Taps.”
Sept. 11, 2001 is a day of loss, heroism, and lessons that we carry forward, said Pomona Police Capt. Ryan Rodriguez.
“It reminds us of what binds us together. It reminds us that in the face of darkness, courage can shine. In the face of fear, compassion can rise. And in the face of tragedy, unity can heal,” he said.
Rodriguez also praised the partnership between WesternU and the Pomona Police Department.
“Whether it’s through coordinated programs, outreach to students, or public safety education, each of these partnerships goes hand in hand with our common goal, and it’s to help mankind,” Rodriguez said. “WesternU is part of what makes Pomona stronger, more resilient, and more vibrant.”
COMP Vice Dean Edward Barnes, MD, FACP, provided a reminder to everyone at WesternU that they play a role in preparing students to serve on the front lines of saving lives.
“Every student that we teach, they’re going to go out and provide care to people who need it,” Barnes said. “So that means when you’re giving a lecture, when you’re preparing for a learning event, if you’re in a sim lab or a skills lab, taking that as serious as if you were the individual running into those buildings to care for others is just as important. The service we do here translates a lot farther than we probably think our reach goes.
The MMSA will continue to host this remembrance event in order to uphold the promise to “Never forget.”
“I appreciate those who were able to come in person today and those who are watching online because it’s important to realize not only that we are a direct link to the care that is provided during those types of events, but it’s important to remember those folks who lost their lives on 9/11,” Barnes said.
WesternU Provost and Chief Academic Officer Paula M. Crone, DO ’92, gave special recognition to those serving in the police and fire departments, the military, and WesternU’s Campus Security.
“Thank you for your service. Thank you for your sacrifices and thank you for helping make our community, our neighborhoods and our University better, stronger and safer,” Crone said. “You are so appreciated, and we are really grateful to you.”
As you go about your day and prepare for tomorrow, hold your loved ones close, appreciate each breath, and never take a single moment for granted, Crone said.
“In the face of the unimaginable, we witnessed extraordinary acts of courage and unity. First responders rushed into danger without hesitation, demonstrating the unwavering spirit of this nation. Ordinary citizens became heroes, offering aid and comfort to those in need. As we remember the nearly 3,000 innocent lives taken from us that day, let us also honor the resilience and strength that arose from the ashes,” Crone said. “We are a nation bound together by the enduring values that define us. Today, let’s not forget the sacrifices that were made, the lives lost, and the indomitable spirit that emerged from the rubble. Let us carry the memory of 9/11 forward as a reminder of our capacity to stand strong in the face of adversity and to protect the freedoms we hold dear. May we continue to strive for a world where compassion, love, and unity prevail over hatred and division.”
