UPDATE: The San Bernardino community gathered early today to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the tragic mass shooting that claimed 14 lives on Dec. 2, 2015. About 100 attendees convened at the Curtain of Courage memorial, honoring the victims and reflecting on the enduring pain of that day.
The ceremony, which took place at the San Bernardino County Government Center, saw families of the victims joining county officials in a heartfelt tribute, underscoring the lasting impact of the shooting. Supervisor Curt Hagman addressed the crowd, emphasizing, “The passage of time does not lessen the impact of that day.”
Emotional moments unfolded as attendees paid their respects. Liam Ortiz, son of survivor Kevin Ortiz, placed flowers at the memorial, while Hiwet Haile, widow of victim Isaac Gebreslassie Amanios, embraced fellow mourners. The bell at the memorial rang 14 times—once for each victim—signifying the community’s collective grief and resilience.
County Assessor Josie Gonzales, who was in office during the shooting, poignantly remarked, “This attack created a painful scar our community still bears.” She urged those present to honor the lost by embodying the courage and compassion that has defined San Bernardino for the past decade.
As the names of the victims were read aloud, the somber atmosphere was palpable, with many attendees shedding tears and reflecting on the lives lost. A simple online ceremony followed, featuring a moment of silence and a memorial video, extending the remembrance to those unable to attend in person.
The tragic event unfolded when gunman Syed Rizwan Farook and his wife, Tashfeen Malik, opened fire during a meeting at the Inland Regional Center, killing 14 people and injuring 22 others. The couple was killed later in a police shootout.
The Curtain of Courage memorial, opened in 2022, stands as a testament to the victims and their families. Its design, inspired by a bulletproof vest, features 14 alcoves—one for each victim—filled with personal keepsakes and inscribed quotes chosen by their families.
As the community mourns, memorials continue to sprout across the region, including a Peace Garden at Cal State San Bernardino, which opened in 2016 and honors five of the victims who were alumni. There are also several other memorials throughout the Inland Empire, ensuring the victims are never forgotten.
The gathering today serves not only as a memorial but also as a powerful reminder of community strength in the face of tragedy. As the day unfolds, San Bernardino stands united in remembrance, proving that while time passes, the memories and impacts of that harrowing day remain ever-present.
Residents are encouraged to share their stories and memories on social media, ensuring that the legacy of the victims lives on in the hearts of the community. The collective effort to heal and remember invites others to reflect on the importance of compassion and community solidarity during these challenging times.
