OKLAHOMA CITY — Marking three decades since one of the most devastating acts of domestic terrorism in United States history, former President Bill Clinton revisited Oklahoma City on Saturday to honor those who lost their lives in the bombing and to offer solace to survivors and their families. Clinton, who was serving as president during the attack on April 19, 1995, made a poignant return to the city, speaking at a remembrance event near the Oklahoma City National Memorial Museum.
The tragic incident involved a truck bomb obliterating a nine-story federal building in the heart of downtown Oklahoma City, resulting in the loss of 168 lives, including 19 children. Clinton was commended for his empathetic response after the bombing and remains deeply impacted by the events of that day.
“I vividly recall standing here with Hillary shortly after the atrocity, asserting that while you have sustained profound loss, you have not lost everything. America remains with you, and we will continue to stand by you for as long as necessary,” Clinton recounted, referencing his initial visit to the site days after the bombing, where he addressed a memorial service for the bereaved families. “I believe we’ve honored that promise,” he reflected.
Over the years, Clinton has made numerous visits to the memorial, participating in speeches during significant anniversaries. During Saturday’s address, he also highlighted the dangers of today’s polarized political climate, drawing parallels to the divisiveness that preceded the bombing. Clinton urged the nation to embrace the “Oklahoma Standard,” a phrase coined to describe Oklahoma City’s unified response of service, respect, and compassion in the aftermath of the bombing.
“Oklahoma City, now more than ever, America needs your example,” Clinton emphasized. “I wish every American could witness the unfolding of life here, as these profound stories are shared.”
Among the dignitaries attending were former Oklahoma Governor Frank Keating and former Oklahoma City Mayor Ron Norick, who led during the time of the bombing. The families of those killed took part in the solemn remembrance by reading aloud the names of the 168 victims.
Due to inclement weather, the ceremony, initially planned to occur on the memorial grounds, was relocated to a nearby church. Following the event, a solemn procession led by bagpipe players from the Oklahoma City Fire Department guided attendees to the outdoor memorial at the site where the federal building once stood. The memorial features include a museum, a reflecting pool, and 168 glass, bronze, and stone chairs inscribed with the names of the victims. The 19 smaller chairs symbolize the children who perished.
Kari Watkins, president and CEO of the memorial, emphasized the importance of the site’s mission to educate others about the senselessness of political violence and ensure that new generations learn about the bombing’s profound impact. “We envisioned reaching a new generation unaware of the story when we created this memorial,” Watkins explained. “Now we see not only children but also educators eager to impart these lessons to the youth,” she shared.