Oklahoma Students Revive Historic Fire Engine to Honor Heroes
TULSA, Okla. — In a heartfelt tribute to first responders, students from Oklahoma are set to restore the Spirit of Oklahoma fire engine, a historic truck gifted to the New York City Fire Department after the 9/11 attacks. This initiative, supported by the Tulsa Fire Museum and Tulsa Tech, aims to educate the younger generation about the sacrifices made by firefighters during tragic events.
Mike Ward, a firefighter and chair of the Tulsa Fire Museum, shared the significance of the donation. "After 9/11, many fire trucks were lost in New York due to building collapses. Students in Oklahoma raised funds to send a fire truck as a symbol of support," he said. The fire engine represents a unique bond forged between New York and Oklahoma first responders following both the 9/11 attacks and the Oklahoma City Bombing.
Ward recounted his personal connection to the tragedies, stating, "I was involved in the department during the Murrah bombing, and the Oklahoma standard of generosity was evident. Many rescue team members from New York came to assist here."
The fire engine served as a rescue unit in New York for two decades before its return to Oklahoma. Now, Tulsa Tech students will play a vital role in the restoration process, beginning with their diesel program, focusing on the engine and transmission. As restoration progresses, students will also enhance its appearance in the autobody program.
Ward emphasized that this initiative symbolizes the enduring spirit of the Oklahoma standard and will serve as a powerful educational tool about both 9/11 and the Oklahoma City Bombing. The engine is expected to arrive at Tulsa Tech in the coming weeks, where restoration efforts will commence. For more details about its historic journey back to Oklahoma, visit the Tulsa Fire Museum web page.
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