104 flights, one mission: Tunnel to Towers Climb marks 10 years of honoring 9/11 heroes

Updated 3 hours ago
LOWER MANHATTAN (WABC) -- The Tunnel to Towers Climb marked its tenth year of honoring the first responders and fallen heroes of 9/11 Sunday morning at One World Trade Center.

A total of 1,250 participants started in the basement and ran up the 102 floors of the skyscraper. The fastest climber finished in about 16 minutes.

John Henshaw, the former director of OSHA and 9/11 responder, spoke with Chantee Lans about what it was like approaching Ground Zero.

"It was a very eerie feeling. Everything was dark. When we drove up, the only light was on the pile," he said. "...New Yorkers were out welcoming all the fire and rescue (personnel) and all the volunteers that came out. It was something you'll never forget."

This year is the 25th anniversary of the 9/11 terror attacks that killed nearly 3,000 people.



"The Tunnel to Towers Tower Climb is more than just a physical challenge. It is a powerful act of remembrance," said Frank Siller, Chairman and CEO of the Tunnel to Towers Foundation in prepared remarks. "Holding the 10th Climb just months ahead of the 25th anniversary of September 11th, reminds us that while time has passed, America's promise to 'Never Forget' remains stronger than ever."

The honorary starter this year was Dominique Pelletier, the wife of fallen Connecticut State Trooper First Class Aaron Pelletier.

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