On September 11, 2001 thousands of families’ lives were changed. In an act of terrorism, planes were crashed into the World Trade Center in New York City in the early morning. It’s easy for one to recall where they were and what they were doing at that moment and time but for one former West Chester quarterback, these events changed his family’s life forever.Michael Horrocks, a 1985 graduate of West Chester University and a star quarterback for the Golden Rams, was the co-pilot of United Flight 175, which was hijacked and crashed into the South Tower of the World Trade Center in New York City. On the ninth anniversary of these tragic events, West Chester University made Horrocks a part of the University, football team and community forever.
Prior to the Golden Rams home opener on Saturday, with family members, teammates, classmates and hundreds of West Chester brethren in attendance, a statue in Horrocks’ honor was dedicated. The Michael Horrocks Foundation, along with the WCU Foundation and WCU athletic department, unveiled and dedicated a life-sized bronze statue of Michael Horrocks.
In 1983, Horrocks led West Chester to its first win over the University of Delaware in 23 years. Horrocks made his first career start that day and led the Golden Rams to a 35-27 victory, despite entering the game as a 35-point underdog. He finished his college career with a 14-7 record in two seasons as West Chester’s starting quarterback.
Horrocks later served in the U.S. Marine Corps following graduation, becoming a commercial pilot for United Airlines, after being honorably discharged from the military. The statue will be permanently placed at the bottom of the hill in the north end zone of Farrell Stadium overlooking the field. During the ceremony, in which Horrocks’ daughter spoke, citations and a mini replica statue were presented to Horrocks’ wife and children.
As Christa Horrocks, Michael’s daughter said, “Heroes are remembered, but legends never die.” Michael Horrocks will never be forgotten by his family, his teammates or his classmates.