By Congresswoman Stephanie Bice
Nearly thirty years ago, our city, state, and nation were changed forever by an unimaginable domestic terrorist attack. Our community lost 168 lives that fateful day, but they are not forgotten. It is important we continue to honor and remember those who did not make it out of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building, those who still have the physical and emotional scars, as well as the brave first responders.
By the end of the day on April 19th, Oklahoma had changed. However, in the midst of the rubble, a tree remained. This tree is now known as the Survivor Tree. It was planted around 1920 and has become a symbol of resilience and hope. Instead of succumbing to the attack, the tree grew and strengthened, just like our community did. In the aftermath of the attack, the state and city came together, creating what we now refer to as the Oklahoma Standard. Its foundational principles focus on three core values: service, honor, and kindness. The Oklahoma Standard helped unite and strengthen the bonds in our great state.
Last week, on the United States Capitol grounds, I had the distinct honor of being able to plant a sapling from the Oklahoma City Survivor Tree. Formally called honor trees, this process is invoked to plant a commemorative tree to recognize a state, a living individual, a group, an organization, or a significant event or anniversary. Attending the ceremony, were Senators Lankford and Mullin, Members of the Oklahoma delegation, representatives from the Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum, and individuals who were directly impacted by the bombing. The new sapling, which is now planted near the Summerhouse on the west lawn of the Capitol, bears a plaque near the tree that states “To honor the 168 lives lost, rescuers, & others impacted by the April 19, 1995, attack on the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building in Oklahoma City, OK.
The American elm is a majestic and hardy tree that stands as a symbol of resilience, stability, and strength. This tree’s robust stature, fast growth, and historical significance will remind us of the enduring spirit of the people who rebuilt their city and their lasting impact on future generations for many years to come. In my mind, the tree is the perfect way to bring a piece of Oklahoma to the Capitol, to commemorate the horrific events, honor those who lost their lives, and show that Oklahoma and America are resilient in times of tragedy. The world needs a little bit more of the Oklahoma standard. I look forward to watching this tree grow and seeing Oklahomans and Americans visit it on the Capitol Grounds.
