A monument honoring county volunteers from across the country who helped Oklahoma County, Okla. in the aftermath of the bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building, was officially unveiled on April 26 during National County Government Week (NCGW).
Funds for the memorial, which rests on the grounds of the Oklahoma County Courthouse, were raised from the sale of commemorative lapel pins at NACo’s 1995 Annual Conference in Fulton County (Atlanta), Ga.
Speaking at the ceremony was Brian Espe, DVM, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and a survivor of the bombing who expressed appreciation for the assistance given from county volunteers.
“On behalf of the federal employees and their families that were in the federal building at the time of the bombing on April 29, 1995 ... I want to thank all of the counties across America that sent personnel and representatives to help in the rescue efforts ... for preparing food and beverages for the rescue workers ... for the counselors that spent many weeks after the bombing ... for the contributions that helped the victims ... survivors and the city ... as well as prayers from everyone. This monument will be a lasting remembrance to the spirit of brotherly love from ‘Counties Across America.”
During his remarks at the dedication, Oklahoma County Commissioner and NACo Board Member Bruce Elwell marked the significance of dedicating the memorial during NCGW.
“Since this is County Government Week across the nation, we call attention to the network of county government, not only for the sharing of information through NACo, but for the true spirit of support when a county such as Oklahoma County needs our help.”
Elwell and Espe were joined by Oklahoma County Commissioner Shirley Darrell in officially dedicating the memorial. Darrell coordinated the fundraising effort, and at the time of the bombing, was Oklahoma County board chairman.