TUCSON, Ariz. (KGUN) — The Tucson Convention Center is holding a stair climbing challenge to honor those first responders who served and died on September 11, 2001.
Over 1,000 people signed up to participate in the 9/11 "Never Forgotten Memorial Tower Challenge."
Formal opening ceremonies began at 7 a.m. Monday.
The challenge is to climb 2,071 steps; it represents the 110 stories of the World Trade Center Towers. Many first responders who participate climb in full gear.
One of those climbers was Austin Bunting who is with the Drexel Heights Fire Department.
“I believe it’s my duty, as a civilian firefighter even if that’s on the west coast to come here and support them and remember them," Bunting said.
As participants go up the steps, they see the names and faces of first responders who gave their lives to save lives.
“I get heartbreak from it. I look at the names and the faces and I wish I was there. That I could take their place. But I do this for them , that is why I am here," Bunting said.
The event is organized by the non-profit 9/11 Tower Challenge Foundation. All proceeds will go towards first responder and military charities in Southern Arizona.
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Adam Klepp is a reporter for KGUN 9. At his previous station in Yuma, Adam focused on a range of local issues including the border, water rights and healthcare. He is originally from Detroit, Michigan, and attended both Loyola University Chicago and Syracuse University. Share your story ideas and important issues with Adam by emailing adam.klepp@kgun9.com or by connecting on Twitter.
