Marking three decades since the most devastating domestic attack in modern United States history, former President Bill Clinton visited Oklahoma City to honor the victims and offer solace to those impacted by the tragic event. On April 19, 1995, Clinton was serving as President when a truck bomb annihilated a nine-story federal building in downtown Oklahoma City, resulting in the deaths of 168 individuals, including 19 children.
During a commemorative ceremony near the Oklahoma City National Memorial Museum, Clinton, who is now 78, delivered a poignant keynote address. He recalled his initial visit to the city just days after the bombing, emphasizing his commitment to the community. Reflecting on that somber day, Clinton remembered his words to those gathered, reaffirming that, despite their loss, they had not lost everything, particularly not the support of the American nation.
In the years following the catastrophe, Clinton has made numerous visits to the Oklahoma City National Memorial Museum, consistently honoring major anniversaries with his presence and speeches. On Saturday, he addressed the dangers of contemporary political polarization, highlighting how such divisiveness could incite violence akin to the events of 30 years ago. He commended the “Oklahoma Standard,” praising the community’s response through unity, service, and compassion.
Other speakers at the event included former Oklahoma Governor Frank Keating and former Oklahoma City Mayor Ron Norick, both of whom were in office during the time of the bombing. Family members of the deceased poignantly read aloud the names of the 168 victims.
Due to inclement weather, the ceremony was relocated from the memorial grounds to a nearby church. Following the event, attendees participated in a procession led by bagpipers from the Oklahoma City Fire Department, making their way to the outdoor memorial. This site, built on the former location of the federal building, features a museum, a reflecting pool, and 168 empty chairs made of glass, bronze, and stone, each inscribed with the name of a victim. Of these, 19 smaller chairs specifically commemorate the children who perished.
The memorial’s mission extends beyond remembrance, aiming to educate future generations about the senselessness of political violence. Kari Watkins, president and CEO of the memorial, noted the increasing number of young visitors and educators engaging with the site, underscoring its role in teaching about the bombing’s enduring impact.
