OKC Standard

Representative Bice and Senator Lankford hosted a dedication ceremony on the United States Capitol Grounds to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the Oklahoma City bombing. A sapling from the Survivor Tree, symbolic of hope and resilience, was planted at the site to honor the 168 lives lost, survivors, rescuers, and those affected by the 1995 domestic terror attack in Oklahoma City.

"The Alfred P. Murrah Building Bombing changed Oklahoma and our nation forever," said Congresswoman Stephanie Bice. "Planting a sapling of the Survivor Tree, which is a symbol of hope and resilience for our community, on the Capitol Grounds is an immense honor. The location of this tree will serve as a place for every American to reflect and remember the impact of April 19th, 1995."

Senator Lankford remarked, "We still feel the pain and loss of April 19, 1995. Each year, we remember the 168 lives lost, those who survived, those who were changed forever, and the heroes who ran toward the devastation. The Survivor Tree endured the blast and became our symbol of hope."

Kari Watkins, President & CEO of the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum, shared, "A tiny seed grown from the Memorial’s Survivor Tree stands as a testament that this seedling will spread its roots and grow at the United States Capitol marking both memory and time."

Dr. Susan Chambers, Chairman Board of Trustees of the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum added, "We are so honored to plant this Survivor Tree at the United States Capitol as a symbol of people coming and working together to find common ground."

Senator Mullin noted, "Nearly 30 years ago, 168 beautiful souls were taken from our community in a horrific tragedy. We will never forget those that we lost and the loved ones they left behind."

Congressman Cole reflected, "On April 19, 1995, Oklahoma City was struck by an unconscionable act of domestic terrorism, shocking the world. 168 precious lives were senselessly taken and hundreds more were left injured and heartbroken."

Congressman Kevin Hern commented, "The resilience of Oklahomans in the aftermath of the 1995 Oklahoma City bombing has always inspired me. This commemorative tree on the grounds of our nation’s Capitol is symbolic of that strength and the hope that endures in Oklahoma."

Congressman Frank Lucas stated, “This is an important anniversary to remember, not just for the sheer tragedy of the day, but also for the overwhelming unity that Oklahomans displayed in the aftermath.”

Congressman Josh Brecheen said, “As we mark the 30th anniversary of the Oklahoma City bombing, I am honored to stand with my colleagues in the Oklahoma delegation as we dedicate this tree to all those affected on that devastating day.”

The dedication coincides with the 30th anniversary of the bombing, highlighting the significance of unity and remembrance. The tree planting serves as a living tribute, approved by the Architect of the Capitol, reminding visitors of hope and resilience.

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