30th Anniversary of Oklahoma City Bombing Sparks Reflections from First Responders

As the 30th anniversary of the Oklahoma City bombing approaches, survivors and first responders are reflecting on the tragedy and its lasting impact. The April 19, 1995 attack on the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building killed 168 people, including 19 children, and injured hundreds more, marking it as one of the deadliest acts of domestic terrorism in U.S. history. First responders like firefighter Chris Fields and law enforcement officers recall the shock and devastation they witnessed, with Fields' image holding a young victim becoming a national symbol of loss and resilience. Documentaries and anniversary events are highlighting both the trauma faced by those on the scene and the community's recovery, emphasizing the importance of supporting first responders as they cope with the aftermath. Leaders involved in the response, such as Chief Kim Zagaris, stress the dedication and humility shown during recovery efforts and the critical lessons learned in emergency management. The city’s response and the stories of those who served continue to shape how America remembers and learns from the Oklahoma City bombing.