18/06/2026
Last week, Night Owl Media had the opportunity to spend several days in Norman covering the 8th Annual Heroes in the Heartland Conference.
What began years ago as the Deputy David Wade Memorial Active Attack Conference has grown into Oklahoma’s premier first responder training conference while continuing to honor Deputy Wade’s legacy of service and sacrifice.
Over four days, first responders from across Oklahoma and beyond came together for education, hands-on training, networking, and collaboration. Police officers, firefighters, EMS personnel, dispatchers, emergency managers, instructors, vendors, and industry professionals gathered with one common goal: strengthening the first responder community and enhancing the services they provide to their communities.
From classroom presentations and hands-on training evolutions to the vendor hall and countless opportunities for professional networking, Heroes in the Heartland continues to provide an environment where knowledge is shared, relationships are built, and partnerships are strengthened.
We are proud to share a few images from this year’s conference and recognize the dedication, professionalism, and commitment demonstrated by those who serve in public safety. Events like these help ensure first responders remain prepared for the challenges they may face while fostering collaboration across disciplines.
A sincere thank you to the conference organizers, sponsors, vendors, instructors, and attendees who helped make Heroes in the Heartland 2026 a success. We look forward to seeing how this conference continues to grow and support Oklahoma’s first responder community in the years ahead.
Bringing the Red and Blue Together.
Photos by Night Owl Media.
