‘They live through us’: Local firefighters honor fallen heroes in 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb
KANSAS CITY, Mo. (KCTV) - Hundreds of firefighters from across the region gathered in Kansas City to honor the memories and sacrifices of the 343 first responders who lost their lives 25 years ago during the September 11 terrorist attacks on the Twin Towers.
The annual Memorial Stair Climb drew participants from numerous departments, with many climbing in full duty gear while carrying the names and photographs of the firefighters killed on 9/11.
Jesse Frank, a firefighter with the Lee’s Summit Fire Department, has participated in the memorial climb for 15 years. For him and many others, the grueling climb is about far more than just reaching the top.
“They live through us,” Frank said. “You know, their memories, their families. Everybody keeps that good spirit that they have. They go help others in the time of need.”
The Kansas City Fire Department is one of hundreds across the nation hosting similar climbs to mark the anniversary. Organizers say that as long as firefighters continue to make the climb, the lives and sacrifices of those lost will never be forgotten.
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