WesternU holds Sept. 11 memorial
Western University of Health Sciences’ Military Medical Student Association held a Sept. 11 memorial service in Ethan Allen Park on WesternU’s Pomona, Calif. campus.
The ceremony, held Sept. 11, 2014, brought together WesternU administrators, faculty, staff and students, invited dignitaries, and representatives from the Pomona Police Department and Los Angeles County Fire Department to honor those who died and those who continue to serve in the military and as first responders.
Thirteen years ago today, 19 men who hijacked four aircraft unleashed the worst
terrorist act in U.S. history, said Pomona Police Sgt. Vince Terrell. Nearly 3,000 innocent people were killed that day, including more than 300 firefighters and 60 police officers. He shared quotes from the current and former President.
“”Terrorist attacks can shake the foundations of our biggest buildings, but they cannot touch the foundation of America. These acts shatter steel, but they cannot dent the steel of American resolve,”” President George W. Bush said.
“”The United States is a nation that stands tall, united and unafraid because no act of terror can match the strength or the character of our country,”” President Barack Obama said.
WesternU President Philip Pumerantz, PhD, read a Hebrew prayer of remembrance. The WesternU Chamber Singers performed the national anthem, and first-year College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific student John Mauch provided the invocation. Pomona Mayor Elliott Rothman also shared his thoughts.
“”We pay our respects to the first responders who died, to the people of New York who died, to the entire nation who wept for our dear citizens that lost their lives,”” Rothman said.
He also urged everyone to remain vigilant.
“”All of you should start taking notice, not just on 9/11 but every day of your lives,”” he said. “”Be vigilant of things you find that maybe are suspicious. When you see something, be vigilant, pick up the phone and let people know.””
The ceremony concluded with the playing of “”Taps”” and a moment of silence.
