Tunnels to Towers 5K Run & Walk Honors Firefighter Steven Siller

The Tunnels to Towers 5K Run and Walk

• 🏃 Thousands of runners participate in the 24th annual Tunnels to Towers 5K Run and Walk.
• 📍 The race follows the route from the Hugh L. Carey Tunnel to the World Trade Center.
• 🗓️ The event kicks off around 9:30 AM, honoring fallen heroes and first responders.

Honoring Firefighter Steven Siller

• 🎗️ The run specifically honors FDNY firefighter Steven Siller, who died on 9/11.
• 🏃 Siller ran from the Brooklyn Tunnel toward the Twin Towers in full gear to save lives after hearing the initial call on his scanner.
• 👨‍🚒 He had just finished an overnight shift and was on his way to play golf when he turned back to his firehouse, Squad One.
• 🎒 Upon finding his unit had already responded, he grabbed his gear, strapped on 60 lbs, and ran through the battery tunnel towards the World Trade Center.
• 💔 It is believed he lost his life while searching for his squad members in the South Tower.

Legacy and Motivation

• 🌟 Steven Siller Jr., the son of the fallen firefighter, shares his perspective.
• 👨‍👦 Though he was only nine months old when his father passed, he feels he "hit the lottery in terms of a dad."
• 💡 His father's example of sacrifice and living for others serves as a constant motivation.
• 🤝 The event, which began in 2002 with 1,500 runners, has grown significantly, now attracting around 30,000 participants.

Event Growth and Purpose

• 📈 The Tunnels to Towers event has grown substantially since its inception.
• ⛰️ In addition to the 5K run, the organization also hosts the Tunnels to Towers Climb of One World Trade.
• 💰 Proceeds from the event support first responders and the families of the fallen.