Oklahoma
Oklahoma Christian commemorates twin tragedies — and the trees that survived them
OKLAHOMA CITY — Every tree has a story, said Ron…
‘Survivor trees’ at Oklahoma Christian commemorate two American tragedies
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Two sister trees stand at Oklahoma Christian University, honoring the memories of the Oklahoma City bombing and the 9/11 attacks.
The Oklahoma City university hosted a dedication ceremony for its Survivor Tree Memorial Plaza on Sept. 13, shortly after the 23rd anniversary of 9/11.
Oklahoma City Mayor David Holt speaks at the dedication of the Survivor Tree Memorial Plaza at Oklahoma Christian University
The plaza is home to an American elm tree descended from one that survived the April 19, 1995, bombing in downtown Oklahoma City and a Callery pear tree cut from one that survived the 2001 attack on New York’s World Trade Center.
OC, which is associated with Churches of Christ, began construction of the public plaza to accompany the trees in April.
It’s the only site in the world to have two such trees side-by-side and serves as a reminder of the connection between the two city’s, OC said in a press release.
“To this day, our communities remain connected and support one another,” said Ron Vega, a New Yorker who worked in recovery efforts after 9/11 and later assisted in designing and constructing the 9/11 Memorial. “The survivor trees standing together here at OC exemplify our shared history and hope for healing.”
Ron Vega, 9/11 recovery worker, Recovery Project executive for the NYC Dept. of Design and Construction, speaks during dedication event at OC.
An Oklahoma City bombing survivor, Susan Walton, said the site “will serve as a peaceful respite from a painful time.”
“I’m grateful for the comfort I’ve received from connecting with others who’ve been impacted by tragedy,” she added.
The American flag flies in the center of the plaza, which is open to the public, flanked by the Oklahoma and New York State flags.
“We are humbled by this opportunity to create a meaningful public space here on campus for our community to remember, honor and reflect on two tragedies that shaped our country’s history,” Chancellor John deSteiguer said in the announcement.
“The two trees signify healing, perseverance and are a testament to Christ’s enduring love. The OC community appreciates the connections we’ve had over the years with survivors from both tragedies. Our shared histories have allowed us to find strength and understanding from each other.”
