Commemorating the 30th anniversary of the deadliest homegrown terrorist attack in U.S. history, former President Bill Clinton urged Americans to prioritize unity over division. Speaking at a remembrance service in Oklahoma City, Clinton emphasized the importance of putting aside personal resentments to preserve the ongoing journey towards a more harmonious nation. He highlighted the risk of stalling progress if efforts focus on overpowering those with differing viewpoints.
Clinton, known for his compassionate leadership following the 1995 Oklahoma City bombing that claimed 168 lives, including 19 children, returned to the city to deliver a heartfelt message of solidarity. During his presidency, just two years into his first term, a truck bomb obliterated the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building. Reflecting on that tragic day, Clinton recounted how his morning routine was interrupted by the devastating news.
The former president honored the many public servants who perished in the attack, acknowledging their daily commitment to serving the American people. Addressing the polarization afflicting the nation, Clinton drew parallels between the extremist ideologies of 1995 and contemporary political divides, cautioning against the destructive aspirations of those who seek to undermine democracy.
Clinton described how the Oklahoma City tragedy was intended to incite widespread upheaval against the government, a goal that could have led to the erosion of democratic values. He criticized the willingness of extremists to justify collateral damage in pursuit of their aims, highlighting the lasting impact on those directly affected.
Praising Oklahoma City’s response to the tragedy, Clinton invoked the “Oklahoma Standard,” a spirit of resilience and community service that emerged in the aftermath. This ethos, characterized by acts of service, honor, and kindness, serves as a model for national healing and unity. Clinton encouraged the audience to uphold these values in the face of contemporary challenges.
In closing, Clinton affirmed the enduring relevance of the Oklahoma Standard, urging Americans to unite and move forward collectively. With a touch of humor, he remarked on his advancing age and inability to pursue political office, drawing a lighthearted comparison to President Trump.
