Family of 9/11 Hero Retraces Steps Through Tunnel to Towers as Anniversary Approaches

The family of FDNY firefighter Stephen Siller plans to retrace his steps through the Brooklyn-Battery Tunnel towards the World Trade Center, an event marking the 25th anniversary of the September 11th attacks. Frank Siller, founder of the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, and other family members will participate in the private walk.

The event will serve as the culmination of the Tunnel to Towers "Steel Across America" tour, which has traveled across the country since May. The tour has featured a 21-foot steel beam salvaged from the South Tower of the World Trade Center and shared Stephen Siller's story.

On the morning of September 11, 2001, Stephen Siller, off-duty, heard about the attacks and rushed to his duty truck. Upon finding the Brooklyn-Battery Tunnel closed to traffic, he reportedly strapped 60 pounds of gear to his back and ran on foot through the tunnel to reach the World Trade Center, where he died saving others.

Honoring Heroes Through Service

Inspired by Stephen Siller's sacrifice and his quote, "While we have time, let us do good," the Tunnel to Towers Foundation has undertaken various initiatives. The organization has provided over 1,700 mortgage-free homes to families of fallen service members and first responders, as well as to wounded veterans and first responders. Additionally, it has offered housing assistance to more than 20,000 homeless veterans.

Through its 9/11 Institute, the foundation has also educated students nationwide about the events of September 11th, focusing on heroism and resilience. A mobile 9/11 exhibit associated with the institute has visited nearly every U.S. state and Canada.

This year also saw the launch of the foundation's 343 Homes Initiative, intended to honor the 343 New York firefighters who perished on 9/11. This initiative aims to provide 343 mortgage-free homes to families of fallen service members and first responders, and to catastrophically injured service members.

The Tunnel to Towers Foundation's efforts aim to preserve the memory of those lost and to support those who serve the nation.