Tunnel to Towers Marks 9/11 Anniversary with Steel Tour Across America

The Tunnel to Towers Foundation commemorates the 25th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks by organizing a tour with a steel beam from the World Trade Center’s South Tower. This beam travels across America to educate younger generations about the events of 9/11.

Frank Siller, the founder and CEO of Tunnel to Towers, spoke with Jon Scott about the emotional impact of the memorial tour. The 17,000-pound steel beam allows citizens to connect with the tragedy of 9/11 on a personal level.

The ‘Steel Across America’ tour began earlier this year in recognition of the anniversary. It also honors the service members and first responders. The tour is making its way up the East Coast, making notable stops in Massachusetts, Washington, D.C., and New York City through September 11.

One of the key events took place Wednesday at Fenway Park during the Boston Red Sox vs. Seattle Mariners game. The steel then proceeded to the Massachusetts Fallen Heroes Memorial. The tour continues to Washington, D.C., for a private event and culminates in New York City on September 11. A final public appearance is scheduled at the New York Giants vs. Dallas Cowboys game at MetLife Stadium on September 13.

Earlier this week, the beam visited the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. Lt. Gen. James B. Bartholomees III emphasized how the steel ties the courage of the first responders to those who served in subsequent years.

“As we approach the 25th anniversary of 9/11, this piece of steel reminds us of the courage of first responders like Stephen Siller and the countless Americans who answered the call in the years that followed,” Bartholomees stated. “Today, young men and women continue that legacy of service, guided by duty, honor, and country.”

A ceremony at West Point included cadets, faculty, staff, and guests. It featured a color guard, a procession by NYPD, FDNY, and Port Authority Police, and included the national anthem and a blessing of the steel. A moment of reflection took place with “Amazing Grace.”

Frank Siller, whose brother Stephen was a fallen FDNY firefighter, shared memories of his brother’s bravery on September 11. “Twenty-five years ago, my brother Stephen strapped on 60 pounds of gear and ran through the Brooklyn Battery Tunnel toward danger, duty, and the people who needed him inside those towers,” Siller remarked.

Siller expressed gratitude to West Point for their hospitality and renewed commitment to honoring the sacrifices of September 11. The Tunnel to Towers Foundation continues its mission to ensure these sacrifices are never forgotten.