On a rainy morning, cadets from our Fort Hamilton High School’s JROTC program gathered to take part in the Tunnels to Towers event, a powerful tribute to the sacrifices made by the first responders on 9/11. The event, held annually to honor those who lost their lives during the terrorist attacks, serves as a living memorial to the bravery and dedication of those who rushed into danger when the nation needed them most.
The Tunnels to Towers event traces its origins to the story of Stephen Siller, a firefighter from Brooklyn. On September 11, 2001, after hearing that a plane had crashed into the North Tower of the World Trade Center, Siller abandoned his vehicle in traffic and ran through the Brooklyn-Battery Tunnel, fully geared, toward the Twin Towers to help with the rescue efforts. Tragically, he lost his life in the collapse of the buildings. His heroic act became the impetus for this event, which raises awareness and funds for first responders, veterans and their families.
The runners at the Tunnels to Towers event are a dedicated group of volunteers and survivors, each driven by a personal desire to honor the memory of the heroes on 9/11. Dressed in athletic attire, they run each year with determination, inspired by the story of firefighter Stephen Siller. Each step they take is a reflection of their commitment to remember the sacrifices made on that tragic day.
This year, Fort Hamilton’s JROTC program participated in the local chapter of the Tunnels to Towers run. Dressed in their uniforms, cadets stood alongside community members, all proudly displaying banners with the faces of firefighters, soldiers, and other important figures who served selflessly on 9/11. For many, this event provided a unique opportunity to connect with the legacy of 9/11, a day they only know from history classes and stories told by their families.
“The most impactful moment for me was when a family approached me because their father’s name was on the banner I was holding,” said Cadet Lieutenant Colonel Harrison Tan. “Although they were clearly grieving, they were also grateful to see that we were honoring their loved ones. It made me realize the deep personal connections that these families carry, and how much these events mean to them.”
For many cadets, the Tunnels to Towers run was an emotional experience that inspired deep reflection, especially in Cadet Selina Wu.
“I am incredibly honored to be able to partake in such a significant event,” Wu said. “It definitely left me feeling patriotic yet embraced with sadness, bravery, sacrifice, and honor in all who dedicated their lives to one’s country and its people.”
As the Tunnels to Towers event concluded, there was a palpable sense of pride among the JROTC cadets and the wider school community. Events like these allow younger generations to remember and honor a pivotal moment in history, while also making a difference for those who continue to serve.
JROTC plans to participate again next year, encouraging even more students to join the effort. “It’s about keeping the memory of those heroes alive and continuing their legacy,” said Cadet Lieutenant Colonel Tan. “It brings communities together and reminds us of the importance of service and sacrifice.”
