The Hall of Remembrance was filled with laughter and light Oct. 18. Two things you would not expect in a somber ceremony for someone who was killed by domestic violence.
Spc. Angel Conner, a Fort Sill Soldier, was shot and killed Jan. 18, 2020 by her boyfriend, Richard Smith. Smith was convicted of first-degree murder in February 2022 and sentenced to life in prison. Conner’s loved ones chose to come back to Fort Sill to help others and to remember her life.
Survivor Outreach Services held a dedication ceremony to add Conner’s photo in the Hall of Remembrance.
“This is a great day because we get to honor Angel. And I just want you to know, she will never be forgotten,” said Keith Powers, Survivor Outreach Services coordinator.
Conner’s mother, Gail, shared stories from Angel’s youth leading up to her time in service.
“She was so outgoing, so outspoken and always had a smile on her face. She ended up going back into the military and that was the best thing she could have done,” said Gail Conner.
Before the dedication ceremony, Conner’s best friend, Shalicia Torbert, spoke to Soldiers in 428th Field Artillery Brigade as part of domestic violence prevention training.
“There were signs, but you just never think it will hit home,” said Torbert.
When referring to the night Conner was killed, she said, “Something was different that night. I saw it, but I didn’t see it.”
Torbert said to not only look for physical signs of abuse, but other clues leading up to it such as isolation and changes in behavior.
“Most people think domestic violence is physical. It’s not just physical. It can be emotional, psychological, financial, and sexual. And all those ways can be gateways to something as tragic to what happened to Angel,” said Torbert.
Torbert also wrote a book, "Lessons from an Angel" in Conner's memory. She said the book started as a way to journal her memories but was suggested as a way to help others have a great friendship like theirs. Torbert said she wanted the book as a way for Conner's son to remember his mother and the kind of friend she was.
Domestic Violence Help: If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, you can speak to a Domestic Abuse Victim Advocate (DAVA) on their 24/7 hotline: (580) 574-0871.
National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233.
For emergencies, dial 911.
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