Remember Oklahoma City- 16th Anniversary

While we were here in Oklahoma City, we made it a priority to visit the Oklahoma City National Memorial.
April 19, 1995 is the day that changed all of American security.  It is a day Oklahomans will never forget, but these Texans will always remember as well.   During the visit, it became quite obvious to me that this was going to be an emotional experience.  We read a little about the bombing in a history book before we went, to prepare the kids, but it was still so graphic and real, that it just penetrated our hearts to the core.

After we went through the museum, we headed outside to find our Ranger so we could earn our Jr. Ranger badges.    It was hard, because the girls were still fighting tears, and the boys were also still soaking in everything.  We walked upon a group of people talking to the Ranger, and long story, short; these people were from New York, and they were SURVIVORS from 911!!!  It was a precious moment, as they were so welcoming, joyful, and quickly became like long-lost friends/family.  :)  The girls' tears were gone, and soon we were ALL completing the booklets! Ha!  It was just marvelous to this Mama's heart.  :)

Here they ALL are, getting "sworn" in! ;)
There truly was a connection with these special families.  We plan on meeting up with them again when we're in New York, and hopefully bless them in some small way, as they have made a lifetime impression on the Golden Gang.
We said our "goodbyes" and gave many hugs, but honestly, know that we will see them again! :)

Outside, we saw the Survivor Tree, which is over 90 years old and stood firm after the bombing.  We also went to the Reflecting Pool and and Gates of Time.  Here, the kids are putting their "mark" on the gate, to signify they will remain hopeful.  When you walk through the gates, you walk into where the bomb exploded.

We also observed  the Field of Empty Chairs, which have the names of the ones who lost their lives that day, (including 19 children).

Then, we walked over to the Survivor Wall.  This is the only wall left from the building itself, with the names of all those who survived the bombing.  Every one of my children noticed that there were a lot of names on the wall.  In fact, there were more survivors. (168 died that day) 
That was the hope and relief, that they needed in their soul.  It was a great way to end the outside tour.  :)

Finally, we walked in the front of the museum again, and there is a place to write on the ground with chalk.  The kids seemed the need to do this, and I felt it was a great way for them to have some closure after such an emotional day.

Blessings,
Steph