Penn dedicates new trauma center in slain doctor's honor

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- Dr. John Pryor was a hero for our times. A talented surgeon at Penn, a dedicated family man devoted to his wife, Carmella, and his 3 children. But he also believed in giving back.

He was moved to help with 911.

Dr. Pryor took that spirit of servitude to Iraq as well, volunteering for two tours of duty when he heard they were shorthanded in the trauma units. Military men and women learned from him, and were inspired by him in the grimmest of circumstances.

"What we saw in John was a passion for his work, an excellence in his work and his care for others," said Lt. Colonel Brad Wenstrup, Army Reserve and U.S. Congressman.

But then came every family's worst fear. A mortar had killed their beloved husband and father on Christmas Day in 2008. Dr. Pryor paid the ultimate price for his dedication. His family was crushed.

Now Penn is dedicating a new trauma center in his honor. Dr. Pryor's wife and children were all there to celebrate his remarkable life and legacy.

"This is an incredible honor in John's memory. His legacy as a dedicated physician, teacher and mentor will continue to be known for many years to come," said Carmella Pryor, wife.

"We live in a time that calls for heroes whose lives bear testimony to everything that is kind, that is brave, that is selfless," University of Pennsylvania President Dr. Amy Gutmann.