Remembering 9/11: Firefighters Unite for Tunnel to Towers Run

Firefighters and emergency service personnel from New Jersey, North Carolina and France joined thousands of participants for the Tunnel to Towers 5K Run & Walk in New York City on Sunday, honoring the lives lost on September 11, 2001, and recognizing the sacrifices made by first responders and military personnel. 

Firefighters from Basking Ridge, Bernardsville, Far Hills-Bedminster , Liberty Corner, Manville and East Franklin took part in the event, alongside members from Chapel Hill, North Carolina, and France, according to the supplied department announcement. Their participation brought together emergency service personnel from different communities and countries for a shared tribute. 

The annual run honors FDNY Firefighter Stephen Siller, who was off duty on September 11, 2001, when he learned of the attacks. After the Brooklyn-Battery Tunnel closed to traffic, Siller put on his firefighting gear and ran through the tunnel toward the World Trade Center, where he lost his life while helping others. 

The 2026 event marked the 25th annual Tunnel to Towers 5K in New York City. The route retraces Siller’s final journey and honors the 343 FDNY firefighters, law enforcement officers, civilians and others whose lives were lost or affected by the attacks and their aftermath