Moore Remembers Loss, Celebrates Beginnings

MOORE, Okla. — One year after an EF-5 tornado devastated the city of Moore, Okla., hundreds gathered to remember the 25 people lost May 20, 2013 and celebrate the continued resilience of the city. The memorial was held at the former site of the Moore Medical Center, which was heavily damaged by the tornado, and was attended by numerous state and local leaders.

“One year ago today the nation witnessed the Oklahoma Standard in action — neighbors helping neighbors rise from the rubble, strangers giving countless resources to help others recover and rebuild and Oklahomans praying without ceasing for those who lost loved ones. A year after the devastating storms, Oklahoma has persevered,” said Sen. Jim Inhofe in a statement. “Today we owe our deepest gratitude to the emergency response teams and volunteers who have helped Oklahoma move forward and heal. Let us also remember in our prayers and thoughts today those who lost loved ones in the storms. The strength and resilience I see in our state time and again make me proud to be an Oklahoman.”

Just after the memorial, gatherers also attended the groundbreaking of the new Moore Medical Center. The $28 million health care facility is expected to open in 2016. The new hospital will include a safe room that will have the capability to house all hospital staff and patients, emergency services, diagnostic imaging, physical medicine services, laboratory services, physician offices, community education and meeting space and a wellness center.

“In the wake of the tornadoes, we witnessed incredible courage, resiliency and generosity. We are deeply indebted to our first responders who worked tirelessly to save lives and property; the many volunteers, churches and nonprofits that helped with cleanup and recovery; and the countless men and women from all over the world who donated their time and resources to give Oklahomans a hand up during the most challenging of circumstances,” said Gov. Mary Fallin in a statement. “Because of their efforts and the incredible spirit of the people of Oklahoma, we are stronger today than we were one year ago. We are and always will be Oklahoma Strong.”