Volunteers Clean Up Cemetery Damaged By Strong Winds

12 destructive tornadoes ripped through Oklahoma, one landing in Caddo County.

The powerful wind gusts swept through Gracemont Cemetery, some flower bouquets didn't even budge yet more than 80 headstones toppled over.

“I was very surprised. It was crazy, they said it was like a straight-line wind, but when we got out here there were headstones in different directions. Once you grab a hold of them it's amazing that wind could move something so heavy,” Harmon said.

Some of the headstones weighed more than 400 pounds. 

Billy Harmon and several other volunteers are working to get them back right side up.

“First and foremost, we're just like Oklahomans. When bad things happen, we come together and this is just one of the many stories you could find of that. Today we got to serve our community together,” Harmon said.

Gracemont cemetery sits on more than five acres and volunteers said this isn't the first time it's been in a storm's path.

“This doesn't just affect Gracemont, it affects you know families from all over the state, you know people that you know call home Gracemont or have called home,” Harmon said.

All headstones were remounted except two that were broken in half by the damaging winds.

“Monument company is going to come replace it for a family,” Harmon said.

Harmon and others say it was hard work but a job that needed to be done.

“This is a place where some people come and sit, you know and remember what they had, with their loved ones,” Harmon said.

Volunteers are bringing peace back to this resting place that holds a special place in many Oklahoman's hearts.

“It's a great way to honor those that you love,” Harmon said.