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Washington, D.C.— As the nation prepares to mark on Sunday the 20th anniversary of the tragic bombing of the Oklahoma City federal building, the leader of the nation’s largest independent union of federal employees honored the victims and survivors of the attack, adding that federal workers carry on their legacy through their dedication to public service.

“On April 19, 1995, 168 people—federal workers, members of the public, and children—were killed in an act of rage against our government and against those who proudly serve it,” said National President Colleen M. Kelley of the National Treasury Employees Union (NTEU). “As we remember those who lost their lives, we also remember those who carry on their work. The federal workforce is made up of employees in communities across the United States who have chosen to work for this country.”

In the aftermath of the tragedy, federal employees in Oklahoma City banded together with a renewed sense of community and purpose, said Lauri Goff, president of NTEU Chapter 45 (IRS Oklahoma). At the time of the explosion, she was in a nearby branch of the IRS when she felt her elevator shake. When Goff stepped outside, “the whole downtown area looked like a war zone.” She added, “Despite what a horrible day it was, we were all one family. It was all about helping one another.”

Today, the site of the Alfred P. Murrah federal building is hallowed ground where a memorial and museum stand to honor the victims and educate the public. “The Oklahoma City bombing was not a random act,” President Kelley said. “It was a deliberate attack on federal employees and serves as a reminder of the need to foster respect for government service and federal workers.”

While the federal community still feels a great sense of loss for those who perished, employees are strengthened in their resolve to honor their sacrifice. “After 20 years, federal employees continue to persevere. But we never forget,” said Kelley.

NTEU is the largest independent federal union, representing 150,000 employees in 31 agencies and departments.