Remembering the Parade Victims
OSU Remembers
On October 24, 2015 the Oklahoma State University and Stillwater community suffered a tremendous loss. We will forever remember the four killed and are grateful for the more than 40 others that survived their injuries due to the heroic actions of the first responders who were on the scene to prevent further loss of life and continue to work today to make our community safe and secure.
Forever in our hearts
Nikita Nakal
Stillwater Strong Memorial Dedicated
To honor the four lives lost and the countless lives forever changed, the Stillwater Strong Memorial was dedicated Friday, Oct. 26, at Hall of Fame and Hoke Street, one block west of Main Street.
“The memorial provides a lasting tribute to the victims of the parade tragedy, an event that brought the Stillwater community together like never before,” said Oklahoma State University President Burns Hargis. “The community owes a huge thanks to the Stillwater Strong Memorial Committee, Stillwater Medical Foundation and the many donors who made this memorial possible.”
The memorial features a six-foot tall, handcrafted alloy ribbon in orange and blue on a concrete base with four granite tiles describing the lives of the four victims lost. A fifth granite tile on a separate pedestal describes the memorial and the purpose behind the Stillwater Strong effort. The site will be bordered by a concrete sign installed near the sidewalk bearing the words “Stillwater Strong.” OSU graduate Gary Sparks, a Tulsa-based architect, was the lead designer for the memorial.
The memorial will be illuminated at night and open to visitors at any time.
2016 Grand Marshal
Stillwater’s first responders served as grand marshals of OSU Homecoming 2016: ‘A Cowboy Dream.’
Representatives from LifeNet, the National Guard, OSU Army ROTC, the OSU Police Department, Payne County Sheriff’s Office, Oklahoma Highway Patrol, Stillwater Emergency Management, the Stillwater Police and Fire departments, and Stillwater Medical Center led the 2016 Sea of Orange Parade as the grand marshals.
Representatives from the nine organizations were on field during the halftime of the West Virginia vs. OSU football game to be recognized and present the Homecoming awards.
Related articles
- The Last Smile: Remembering Nash Lucas (O'Colly)
- The Flight of an Angel: Remembering Nikita Nakal (O'Colly)
- Always Together: Remembering the Stones (O'Colly)
- Healing Effect: First responders saved lives, now return to unite community (O'Colly)
- City's public safety team ready for homecoming (Stillwater News Press)
- Cowboy Strong Run inspires, honors before one-year anniversary of homecoming crash (O'Colly)

Note left at the candle light vigil: "We're grieving with you and your families. Stay Stillwater Strong. Love Your Cowboy Family."