Never Forget, I haven't. This September 11th will mark the 22nd anniversary of the cowardly terrorist attacks on the U.S. As angry as I still am about that day, I need to look for some positive.

Sadly until September 11, 2001 our first responders were taken for granted. In real time on 9/11 we witnessed the courage of those men and women that serve our frontlines in the community. There were 2,977 victims killed in the September 11 attacks, 421 were emergency workers in New York City who responded to the World Trade Center.

Let me introduce you to a man that I have never met, but in my opion is the true definition of HERO. His name is Stephen Siller. The Tunnels to Towers Foundation was established because of this man. Here's why, his courage was exemplary:

On September 11, 2001, Stephen, who was assigned to Brooklyn’s Squad 1, had just finished his shift and was on his way to play golf with his brothers when he got word over his scanner of a plane hitting the North Tower of the World Trade Center. Upon hearing the news, Stephen called his wife Sally and asked her to tell his brothers he would catch up with them later. He returned to Squad 1 to get his gear. Stephen drove his truck to the entrance of the Brooklyn Battery Tunnel, but it had already been closed for security purposes. Determined to carry out his duty, he strapped 60 lbs. of gear to his back, and raced on foot through the tunnel to the Twin Towers, where he gave up his life while saving others.

The first time I heard about Stephen's heroism I was rattled. I was heartbroken for his family and all of the other first responders that passed on 9/11. It also gave me hope. A man like this, on his way to golf, put others first. Heroism and selfless acts. We need more of that.

Let's do something together in Jackson to support first responders. The Tunnels to Towers event in Jackson is coming up on May 20, 2023 and it's taking place at Cascade Falls, 1401 S. Brown St., Jackson MI 49203. Registration begins tomorrow, February 2nd. There is a 48 hour registration special that will save you 50% on your registration, it's for a good cause, donate the other 50% back to the charity if you can.

All proceeds help those that put their butt on the line for you and I everyday. The event is fun for the whole family. Bring the kids and they can talk to our community heroes, check out firetrucks and have a blast.

Thank you to all that serve our nation and our communities. YOU are heroes.

Tunnels To Towers

Abandoned Flint Fire Station, 2014-2017

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