WASHINGTON - After more tributes to the spirit of Oklahoma City, the House passed a resolution Wednesday commemorating the 10th anniversary of the Murrah Building bombing and calling on Americans to observe a week of hope.
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The approval came with personal recollections about the bombing and words of praise to all who responded from Oklahoma House members.
During House discussion Wednesday, Rep. Frank Lucas, R-Cheyenne, recalled his shock when first told of the bombing and his specific fear for his staff members who were in a nearby building.
Lucas said Oklahomans "lost our innocence" that day.
But, he said, "Ten years after the bombing, we Oklahomans are stronger than ever."
Rep. Dan Boren, D-Muskogee, said the people of Oklahoma City had not allowed fear to keep them away from downtown. Instead, he said, the area was flourishing.
The resolution, which was approved by the Senate last week, was offered by Rep. Ernest Istook, R-Warr Acres. Istook noted later federal payments to the downtown area for rebuilding, the memorial and other activities related to the bombing totaled over $200 million.
"That level of federal assistance demonstrates the national concern over what happened in Oklahoma City," Istook said.
