Tunnel to Towers Foundation Honors September 11 Heroes with Steel Beam Return

The Tunnel to Towers Foundation recently held an event to commemorate the sacrifice of September 11 heroes by returning a steel beam from the World Trade Center to Ground Zero. The foundation’s CEO, Frank Siller, and his nephew, Stephen Siller Jr., were involved in this tribute, which retraced the final steps of firefighter Stephen Siller through the Brooklyn-Battery Tunnel.

Frank Siller honored his brother Stephen Siller, a 34-year-old firefighter known for his bravery on September 11, 2001. On that day, after learning of the attacks, Stephen Siller rushed toward the Twin Towers, going through the tunnel on foot. He ultimately gave his life during this heroic act. The Tunnel to Towers Foundation aimed to ensure his sacrifice, along with others, is remembered and celebrated.

Together, they carried Stephen’s memory, his legacy, and the promise that his sacrifice would never be forgotten, stated the Tunnel to Towers press release.

The charity undertook the “Steel Across America” tour, transporting a steel beam from one of the towers across the United States. This tour concluded with the Siller family’s walk through the Brooklyn-Battery Tunnel. The tour covered more than 10,500 miles and included nearly 40 stops across over 21 states, serving as a place for communities to gather and remember the tragic events of September 11, 2001.

Stephen Siller Jr., who was only nine months old when his father died, spoke on Fox & Friends about the foundation’s impact on his family. He expressed gratitude for their efforts in keeping his father’s memory alive, emphasizing the ongoing work to assist others in his father’s name.

Stephen Siller ran through the Brooklyn-Battery Tunnel when he discovered his unit had already responded and the tunnel had closed to traffic. Carrying 60 pounds of firefighting gear, he rushed toward the towers, portraying the courage displayed by many first responders on that day.

The Tunnel to Towers Foundation, established in memory of Stephen Siller, carries out its mission by offering mortgage-free homes to families of fallen first responders and veterans. They also build smart homes for catastrophically injured veterans and provide scholarships to children of home recipients. The foundation’s commitment extends to addressing veteran homelessness and ensuring the events of September 11 remain in public memory.

Alex Nitzberg writes for Fox News Digital.