About 100 people participated in the first Tunnel to Towers 5K held in Vermont on July 25 at the Orleans County Fairgrounds in Barton, raising more than $15,000 for the foundation.
The Tunnel to Towers Foundation was created to honor Stephen Siller, a New York City firefighter killed on Sept. 11, 2001. The organization now provides mortgage-free homes to families of fallen service members and first responders.
The race began with a tribute ceremony at the fairgrounds race track, wound through Barton Village, and ended back at the track, with hundreds of spectators watching.
Organizers noted the event carries added meaning this year as the 25th anniversary of the Sept. 11 attacks approaches.
Art LaPlant, a race organizer, said interest in the event continues to grow. “It’s just gaining steam for the simple reason for what this foundation does for our first responders and military veterans,” LaPlant said. He emphasized the importance of bringing the event to Vermont: “Anything we can do to bring these types of things to the community, to pay respect and give back to these heroes who put their lives on the line every day throughout the country.”
Photo: Andrew Pons via Unsplash. Photo is illustrative and not from the scene.
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