Sweat dripped off their noses as they lumbered up flights of stairs, the early morning sun reflecting off their protective metal helmets and firefighting gear. Banter was lighthearted but scarce as they returned down the interior stairwell of a building in the Round Rock Public Safety Training Center, their footsteps ominously echoing off darkened walls.  

Firefighters, police officers and emergency medical technicians gathered Thursday morning at Round Rock’s Public Safety Training Center for a remembrance of those who lost their lives in the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001. The first responders, many in full fire gear, each climbed as many as six stories of stairs 22 times in tribute to the firefighters who responded to the Twin Towers that day. 

“Our firefighters keep this tradition going every year because it’s important to them, and each step they climb is a reminder of the courage and sacrifice that define our profession. It’s a moving tribute that shows we will never forget.” 

Round Rock Fire Battalion Chief John Collins said the day should be “solemn, but it doesn’t have to be somber.” He noted it reminds firefighters to “keep ourselves in the spirit of being ready for” another major tragedy, and hopes events such as the stair climb ensure the memory of the day is never forgotten.  

“We don’t ever want to forget that day,” added Battalion Chief Richard Rago. “We honor that day in our hearts and minds and say a prayer for all those who were lost, and for those who gave the ultimate sacrifice.” 

Round Rock Fire has hosted the stair climb for nine consecutive years. First responders from Round Rock have turned out in large numbers and have been joined by active-duty military personnel and other first responders from throughout Central Texas.  

Several Round Rock first responders indicated they also participate in an upcoming Tunnels to Towers 5K Run, which honors the memory of an off-duty New York firefighter. Stephen Gerard Siller responded to the calls for assistance only to find the Battery Tunnel closed to traffic the day of 9/11. In full gear, he ran the length of the tunnel and beyond and later died when the Towers collapsed.   

Planning has already begun on next year’s stair climb, which will commemorate the 25th anniversary of 9/11.