Norfolk, Neb. - In a poignant tribute, the Norfolk community joined forces with Norfolk Fire and Rescue to host their 2nd annual 9/11 memorial stair climb, honoring the lives lost in the tragic events of September 11, 2001. The event recreated the grueling 110-story climb faced by first responders who rushed into the World Trade Center that day.

The idea behind the event was simple: to participate and remember. Participants were encouraged to climb as many stairs as possible, with the ultimate goal of collectively representing the 110 flights. After an hour and a half, everyone gathered at the center of Veterans Memorial Field to ring a bell and observe a moment of silence for the fallen heroes. 

This year marked a milestone with the Boy Scouts and Cub Scouts presenting the colors for the first time. The event also saw a move to a larger venue at Veterans Memorial Field, with both sets of bleachers opened to accommodate the growing crowd. Each participant received a badge bearing the name of a fallen first responder, offering a tangible connection to the individuals being honored.

This year’s event featured a special guest, New York Firefighter and EMT Sean Roe, who shared his personal experiences from that fateful day. Roe, assigned to the 16th Battalion in Harlem, recounted receiving the call at his mother's house and the eerie, traffic-free drive into Manhattan. 

"It was kind of crazy. There was no traffic whatsoever on a weekday going into Manhattan," Roe recalled. The devastation he witnessed upon arriving on-site, particularly after the collapse of the second tower, remains etched in his memory. "Right after the second tower collapsed, we pretty much got right on site, and to just see the devastation was just absolutely crazy." 

Roe emphasized the importance of remembering the countless friends he lost that day and expressed his hope that people would never forget the sacrifices made. "It's heartwarming to know that people are really still remembered and are willing to go out and sacrifice and to push out 110 stories. You know, it's just unreal. It's really cool to see."

The event served as a powerful reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment. As participants climbed and remembered, the Norfolk community demonstrated its unwavering support for those who lost their lives on 9/11 and the brave first responders who continue to serve. 

In a single moment, life can change forever. As you live and breathe today, cherish every second. Hold your loved ones close, and never take a single moment of life for granted.