On Sunday, September 11, 2022 at 8 AM, local police, firefighters, EMS and military service members gathered at the Georgetown ISD Stadium, many dressed in uniform, to participate in a special annual tribute on the 21st anniversary of the 9/11 attacks.
“This is our way of honoring not only the firefighters, police officers, the EMTs that died, but also the citizens of New York,” Carl Boatright, Battalion Chief for the Georgetown Fire Department, told Hello Georgetown. “We try to take about 5,500 steps. So, that’s the equivalent of the steps that it would take to get to the top of the 110th floor.”
The participants logged those steps by walking up and down the stadium stairs, many carrying fire hoses and other equipment as the first responders in New York did that day. Among those participating included individuals from the Georgetown Fire Department and EMS, Georgetown Police Department, military service members, as well as others from local fire and police departments including Austin, Travis County, Sam Bass and San Antonio.
“One thing we talk a lot about…is family, is brotherhood, and to me, this is the ultimate showing of brotherhood, family,” Boatright said. “Just coming out, being together, suffering together and accomplishing this task.”
Also at the stair climb were Boy Scout troops who assisted in keeping the participants hydrated and encouraged during the climb.
“We were out here to help support them and keep them hydrated,” one scout told Hello Georgetown. “It was nice to do something for our first responders because they do so much for our community.”
The September 11th attacks claimed the lives of almost 3,000 people including 403 first responders. You can view additional photos taken by the Georgetown Fire Department below or by clicking here.
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