MORRISON, Colo. (KDVR) — Thousands gathered Thursday morning for the 17th annual 9/11 memorial stair climb at Red Rocks Amphitheater in Morrison.
Thursday marked 24 years since such a tragic day in the nation’s history and those who come out to the stair climb go up the stairs at the amphitheater to pay tribute to the firefighters and everyone killed back in 2001.
The whole event starts in the upper south parking lot with a few words from organizers and a moment of silence right at 8:46 a.m., which marks the moment the first plane hit the first tower.
“The 2025 Colorado 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb is a way to honor and remember the 343 FDNY firefighters and almost 3,000 Americans who died on 9/11,” Ronda Scholting, with West Metro Fire said in a press release. “Each participant pays tribute by climbing the equivalent of the 110 stories of the World Trade Center, at Red Rocks, participants will complete nine laps around the amphitheater.”
According to Duncan, the stair climb benefits the FDNY Counseling Services Unit and the programs provided by the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation to support the families of the nation’s fallen.
“Over $1 million is raised annually,” Scholting said in a release. “This year, the program will exceed a total of $14 million raised since 2011.”
Organizers said there are 50 stair climbs held around the world, but the one at Red Rocks is the largest and most well-attended in the country. Duncan said to FOX31’s crew on scene that they have people from 26 other states who traveled to Colorado to participate.
“Since its debut, the event has raised more than $1.1 million to benefit the families of those who made the ultimate sacrifice,” Scholting said.
Firefighters all across the state showed up. Some showed up in full gear, including oxygen tanks and others wore full regular gear while carrying everyday firefighting equipment. Also, every day people showed up to support.
FOX31 reporter Courtney Fromm and photojournalist Kyle Bindas completed the climb as well. Fromm wore gear provided by Rattlesnake Fire and Bindas carried his photographer equipment the entire climb.
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