Ceremony Honors Moore Tornado Victims, Marks 1 Year Anniversary

The 25 people killed a year ago when a tornado struck Moore were honored during a remembrance ceremony followed by a hospital groundbreaking to mark the one-year anniversary of the tornado that also left hundreds injured.

Gov. Mary Fallin and U.S. Rep. Tom Cole joined Moore city officials to break ground Tuesday on the new Moore Medical Center. The $29 million facility is expected to be completed in fall 2016.

5/20/2014 Related Story: OKLAHOMA REMEMBERS: Tuesday Marks One Year Anniversary Of Moore Tornado

The remembrance ceremony began at 10 a.m. Tuesday. The program included a tribute to the 25 who died May 20, 2013, with a bell ringing by the Moore Fire Department Honor Guard and it concluded with the groundbreaking.

Gov. Fallin delivered a speech during the remembrance ceremony, and thanked the teachers, residents, first responders, meteorologists and more for their efforts.

"What makes me so proud is that we are a determined people. We are Oklahoma strong. The nation and the world saw it. Let us not forget the lives lost, and keep the families of the victims in our prayers," Fallin said.

Moore Mayor Glen Lewis said during the ceremony that he hopes parents will take the time to teach their children about safety.

"We hope that you take the time to teach your children about safety, and that you build a storm shelter at your house. We hope that schools continue to build storm shelters, and that families and businesses will build storm shelters," Mayor Lewis said.

A groundbreaking ceremony for the new Moore Medical Center took place following the remembrance ceremony. The previous medical center was destroyed during the 2013 tornado that was rated an EF5.

Currently a temporary hospital sits in its place.