Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum

Today, we remember the September 11 attacks. This wooden sign, created in 2002 and placed on the Fence, symbolizes the bond between Oklahoma City and New York City. Both cities, connected by their tragedies, share a deep link through the acts of kindness and unity shown in response. #FromTheArchives

On September 11, 2001, our nation endured the worst act of terrorism in U.S. history. Thousands were killed, including six Oklahomans and nine first responders who aided the rescue and recovery efforts following the Oklahoma City bombing. The attacks on April 19 and September 11 bonded our two cities with a shared experience. Today, we’re reminded of how our communities stood united in the face of tragedy, and how our country responded to the senselessness of violence with an outpouring of love and support. We invite all to stop by the Memorial and Museum to learn more about the resilience of the human spirit.

September is National Preparedness Month. In July 1994, Oklahoma City leaders participated in crucial disaster preparedness training at FEMA's Emergency Management Institute. This training helped refine the city's emergency response plan, which played a vital role after the bombing. In recognition of their efforts and contributions, the OKC Fire Department received this plaque from the National Disaster Medical System’s Office of Emergency Preparedness. #FromTheArchives

After the bombing, students nationwide sent tokens of remembrance and support. Among these heartfelt messages were cards from Coolidge Elementary School. One card, created by Erica Holland, is particularly poignant — her mother, Peggy Louise Holland, was one of the 168 killed in the bombing. Visit the Memorial and Museum to see how these expressions of care and solidarity continue to honor the memory of those who were killed, those who survived and those changed forever. #FromTheArchives

In 2005, we embarked on a special project to honor the lives lost in the 1995 bombing. Survivor Tree seedlings were planted in communities across the state, including at Spencer Elementary School (pictured here). These photos capture a community coming together to heal and rebuild! #FromTheArchives

As the new school year begins, we reflect on the significance of Oklahoma House Bill 2750. Signed by Governor Brad Henry on March 31, 2010, this bill mandates that the Oklahoma City bombing is taught in Oklahoma history classes. Thanks to H.B. 2750, students statewide learn about the events of April 19, 1995, and the profound impact it had on our state and nation. #FromTheArchives

As the 2024 Summer Olympics wrap up this week, we reflect on a moment from 1996 when the Oklahoma City bombing site was a stop on the torch relay. Mike Downey, brother-in-law of Terry Smith Rees who was killed in the bombing, passed the torch to Jennifer Rodgers of the Oklahoma City Police Department. Olympics organizers and relay participants signed a relay shirt, which was hung on the Fence and later preserved by the Memorial Archives. #FromTheArchives

Fran M. Ferrari was working in the Oklahoma Criminal Justice Resource Center across the street from the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building when the Oklahoma City bombing occurred. She suffered severe injuries to her head, face, eyes and hands. These items — a vase, business cards and a birthday card — are a few of Fran’s personal items salvaged from the rubble, which she later donated to the Memorial Archives. #FromTheArchives

Today, #WeRemember Paul D. Ice. Paul was a Senior Special Agent for U.S. Customs when he was killed in the Oklahoma City bombing. Paul cherished summer vacations with his family, creating unforgettable memories together. His daughters, Sarah and Miranda, donated these photos to the Memorial Archives, documenting their family’s visits to Las Vegas, Seaquarium and Disney World. #FromTheArchives

Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum President & CEO Kari Watkins recently sat down with KOCO 5 to discuss the impact of increased political violence. Hear her message of unity: https://bit.ly/3WfFT39