Katie Daly
Updated on: October 8, 2024 9:02 pm GMT
Central New York Remembers Heroes with Annual Stair Climb
UTICA, N.Y. — Each year, Central New York remembers the sacrifices made on September 11, 2001, as participants gather for the CNY Memorial Stair Climb. This year, over 300 individuals climbed 55 flights of stairs at the Utica State Office Building, symbolizing the 110 stories of the World Trade Center, to honor the emergency responders who lost their lives that tragic day. The heart of this event is the profound commitment to ensuring that the courageous acts of these heroes never fade from public memory.
A Time for Remembrance
The CNY Memorial Stair Climb has become a cherished annual tradition. Jeff Burkhart, the event director, emphasized the significance of the climb in his remarks. “We have a generation of folks who were born after 9/11. They don’t know what the pre-9/11 world even was,” Burkhart said. “This is our opportunity to not only tell the stories of those heroes who died on 9/11 but to discuss some of those changes that have happened over time.”
Each Step Counts
Participants in the climb take on the challenge of ascending and descending 110 flights of stairs to mirror the number of stories in the World Trade Center. In addition to the physical challenge, each climber carries the weight of the memories of those they honor. After reaching the top, climbers placed tags on a memory board for the 423 first responders who made the ultimate sacrifice. The event also included ringing a bell to signify who they were climbing for, creating a powerful moment of solidarity and remembrance.
Extending the Tribute Across New York
The tribute doesn’t end in Utica. On the same day, local firefighters and community members in Rochester participated in the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation’s (NFFF) 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb at Innovative Field. There, climbers ascended 2,200 steps, representing the height of the World Trade Center.
Purpose Behind the Climb
Victor Stagnaro, CEO of the NFFF, described the importance of the event: “The 9/11 Memorial Stair Climbs are an opportunity for anyone in the community to demonstrate respect and admiration for these courageous firefighters who gave their lives trying to save others. It’s also a way to promise their loved ones that we will always remember.” Funds raised through these events support programs for families of fallen firefighters as well as counseling services for the FDNY.
Logistics of the Rochester Climb
In Rochester, registration for the event opened at 7:30 a.m., with the opening ceremonies starting at 8:30 a.m. and climbers beginning their journey at 8:46 a.m., the exact time the first plane struck the World Trade Center. The registration fee was $35, and every participant received a badge honoring one of the fallen heroes from September 11th.
Looking Ahead
As time passes, events like the CNY Memorial Stair Climb and the NFFF’s tribute serve as vital reminders of the heroism displayed on 9/11. They foster community spirit and help ensure that the memories of those who sacrificed their lives are kept alive for future generations. The unity and dedication displayed by participants across New York exemplify the enduring legacy of the heroes and their families, reminding us all to remember and honor their contributions to our safety and freedom.
Further Information
For more detailed information on memorial stair climbs, participant stories, and ways to contribute, you can visit the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation’s website or check local news platforms for updates on future events.
As we reflect on these commemorative events, it is clear that the spirit of remembrance continues to thrive in our communities, ensuring that the sacrifices made on September 11th are never forgotten.
- Over 300 participants climbed at the Utica event.
- Each climber honored an FDNY firefighter.
- Events support families of fallen firefighters.
These efforts show us how important it is to remember the heroes from our past. They remind us that we still need to honor those who stepped up when our country needed help.
