I have participated in the Tunnel to Towers Tower Climb every year since 2017. It is done in the memory of those who perished when both towers collapsed after the hijacked airliners tore through both towers. There was tragedy and bravery on a large scale that was displayed in real time for everyone to see. A total of 441 first responders died, This included 343 firefighters, 71 police, 8 paramedics, and 55 military personnel. I remember the shock and immense sorrow that the entire nation experienced in the aftermath. We grieved for the passengers on the planes, the occupants of the towers, and for the first responders who lost their lives trying to save others. For me, the climb is an opportunity to pay homage to all those who were on site and/or attempted to go up those stairs in order to save others. The money raised goes to support the families of first responders who die in the line of duty. There are many fine charities that one can contribute to, but this charity is the one that resonates most with me.
Each year since 2015, the Tunnel to Towers Foundation has held the Tunnel to Towers Tower Climb NYC at One World Observatory at One World Trade Center in New York City. One thousand participants climb 104 stories, symbolizing strength, hope and the resiliency of the American spirit.
The event celebrates the life and sacrifice of all 9/11 heroes, including FDNY firefighter Stephen Siller and FDNY Captain Billy Burke.
On September 11, 2001, Stephen Siller, a FDNY firefighter assigned to Brooklyn’s Squad 1, had just finished his shift and was on his way to play golf with his brothers. He suddenly got word over his scanner that an airplane had hit the North Tower of the World Trade Center. Stephen drove his truck to the entrance of the Brooklyn Battery Tunnel, strapped 60 lbs. of gear to his back and raced on foot through the tunnel to the Twin Towers. There, he gave up his life while saving others.
Captain William F. Burke, Jr. and his men were on the 27th floor of the North Tower when the South Tower collapsed. Billy immediately alerted the Captain of Ladder Co. 6 and the Officer of Ladder Co. 24, his original company, of the collapse. They, along with their men, immediately evacuated along with a number of civilians they were assisting, all surviving. Minutes later the North Tower collapsed and Billy perished along with the other innocents on September 11, 2001. He selflessly repeated, “keep going, I’m right behind you,” to keep his men moving to safety.
The view from One World Observatory at the top of One World Trade Center is nothing short of spectacular. After making the emotional climb, participants explore expansive, panoramic views in every direction from a unique perspective. One of the major highlights, of course, is viewing the two reflecting pools that mark the footprints of where the Twin Towers once stood.
