Local heroes recognized for OKC Bombing Anniversary

The bravery and sacrifice of the Blackwell Fire Department were honored Friday morning at a special assembly at Newkirk High School, as part of the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum’s “Journey of Hope” 30th anniversary outreach program.

The program, which travels to all 77 counties in Oklahoma, aims to educate the next generation about the lessons of the 1995 Oklahoma City bombing and to recognize the first responders who answered the call in the aftermath of the tragedy.

During the assembly, seven Blackwell firefighters who rushed to the scene 30 years ago were publicly recognized: Jim Backus, Tom Beliel, Tom Gleason, Lloyd McMartin, James Morris, Randy Rudd, and Derry Taylor. These men were applauded by students, staff, and community members as their names were read and they stood to be honored.

Chief Hanebrink of the Blackwell Fire Department also attended the ceremony, representing the department and its heroic efforts on that dark day in Oklahoma history.

Martha Beliveau, representing the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum, expressed gratitude to the Blackwell firefighters and all first responders from Kay County. “Their courage and selflessness in the face of unimaginable tragedy helped bring hope and healing to so many,” Beliveau said. “It’s important that our young people understand the sacrifices made and the resilience shown by these heroes.”

The “Journey of Hope” initiative will continue its tour across Oklahoma in the coming months, ensuring that the stories of bravery from April 19, 1995, are not forgotten.

As the assembly concluded, students presented a standing ovation, a gesture of deep respect for the firefighters whose actions continue to inspire three decades later.