On September 24, 2023, approximately 30,000 runners participated in the annual Tunnel to Towers race in New York City, retracing the path taken by fallen firefighter Stephen Siller during the 9/11 terror attacks. The event raised over $1 million to support the families of fallen first responders and veterans.
The Tunnel to Towers Foundation, established in memory of Siller, aims to provide mortgage-free homes to the families of first responders who have lost their lives in the line of duty, as well as to build “smart homes” for injured veterans. Frank Siller, Chairman and CEO of the foundation, emphasized the event’s significance, stating, “This event is the cornerstone of the Tunnel to Towers Foundation… it remains a moving tribute to all of those lost on 9/11, 24 years later.”
Participants from various backgrounds joined the race, including over 50 firefighters from France, showcasing the global solidarity surrounding the cause. The foundation has already surpassed $2.4 million in fundraising efforts, with contributions coming from both corporate sponsors and individual donors.
One notable participant, Keegan Muldowney, a police officer from Potsdam, New York, and his team, the Muldowney Moondogs, raised a record-breaking $135,000 this year. Muldowney expressed pride in their efforts, highlighting the community’s willingness to support the foundation’s mission. “Everybody that we talked to wants to contribute to the good that the Tunnel to Towers Foundation is doing,” he noted, emphasizing the powerful message of unity and support for veterans and families of fallen first responders.
The Muldowney family has been involved with the Tunnel to Towers Foundation since its inception and has recently increased their efforts to raise awareness year-round. They have hosted fundraising events in locations such as Florida, Long Island, and the Adirondack Mountains. Muldowney attributed the jump in fundraising from $45,000 last year to six figures this year to their persistent outreach.
Muldowney also shared his motivation for fundraising in his children’s names, underscoring the importance of educating the next generation about the sacrifices made by first responders. “The true meaning of ‘Never forget’… is that the next generation needs to be educated, and also never forget,” he remarked.
The Tunnel to Towers race not only serves as a tribute to those who lost their lives on September 11, 2001, but also strengthens community bonds and raises essential funds for those in need. As fundraising efforts continue over the coming weeks, the foundation remains committed to its mission of supporting families and veterans, ensuring that the legacy of heroism and sacrifice is never forgotten.
