Honoring the Lives Lost and the Resilience of Survivors: Remembering the Oklahoma City Bombing

On April 19, 1995, our nation was forever changed by the tragic bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building in Oklahoma City. This senseless act of violence claimed 168 lives, including 19 children, and injured hundreds more. Among those lost were 33 federal employees, including 16 dedicated Social Security employees, whose service and commitment to the public will never be forgotten.

Each year, we pause to honor the memory of those who perished and to reflect on the profound impact this event had on families, colleagues, and the entire community. The pain and loss from that day remain with us, but so too does the remarkable resilience shown by survivors and those affected. More than 600 individuals survived the bombing, and their courage to rebuild their lives continues to inspire us all.

Their stories are powerful reminders of hope, strength, resilience, and perseverance. In the aftermath of the tragedy, Social Security employees and leadership responded quickly and compassionately, to assist survivors and restore critical services. Within hours, Social Security’s recovery team was on site, and a just weeks later, a new Oklahoma City local office opened its doors. Thanks to the unwavering commitment of our employees, the agency ensured that residents continued to receive the essential services and support during this incredibly difficult time. These actions, and the people behind them, show that even in the face of profound loss, dedication and care can transform tragedy into hope.

As we remember the victims and honor the survivors, we also recognize the strength of our nation and the importance of coming together in times of adversity. The Oklahoma City National Memorial Museum stands as a place of remembrance, comfort, and hope for all.

We invite you to visit our Social Security History webpage, where you can hear directly from survivors, whose stories offer insight into the enduring spirit of those affected. Today and always, we remember, we honor, and we extend our deepest sympathies to the loved ones of those lost.