News Summary
Over 100 runners and walkers participated in the 9th Annual Tunnel to Towers 5K in Augusta to honor victims of the September 11 attacks. Hosted by Augusta University and the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, the event emphasized remembrance and support for first responders. The memorial ceremony included a moment of silence, marking the importance of honoring heroes lost on that day. Participants, including firefighters and military personnel, showcased their commitment to remembering those who serve in emergency roles, fostering community spirit and awareness about 9/11.
Augusta, Georgia – Over 100 runners and walkers came together in Augusta to honor the victims of the September 11, 2001 attacks during the 9th Annual Tunnel to Towers 5K event. Hosted by Augusta University, the City of Augusta, and the Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers Foundation, the race serves as both a tribute to those who lost their lives that day and a support system for first responders, military members, and their families.
The event began with a memorial ceremony before participants took to the course, commemorating the individuals who made the ultimate sacrifice on 9/11. A significant highlight of the ceremony was a moment of silence marked by the ringing of a bell 15 times, a tradition known as “5-5-5,” honoring firefighters who have died in the line of duty. This solemn gesture underscored the importance of remembering the heroes of that tragic day.
Co-Director of the event emphasized the necessity of keeping the memory of September 11 alive, particularly for younger generations who may not be fully aware of the events surrounding the attacks. The event aims to create a space for reflection, connection, and honor, bridging the gap between history and the present day.
Participation in the race included many firefighters and military personnel donning full gear, a powerful symbol of tribute to the heroes who responded to the attacks. This display highlights the continuing commitment to honor those who serve in emergency response roles and enhances community awareness about their sacrifices.
As the event unfolded, it became clear that its mission extends beyond local boundaries. The Tunnel to Towers Foundation has established similar races across the nation, all dedicated to recognizing and honoring first responders and military service members. This nationwide effort amplifies the collective memory and appreciation for the heroes who protect communities.
John Ryan, the Co-Coordinator of the event, reiterated the goal of the Tunnel to Towers 5K: to provide a communal space for remembrance of the tragedies and heroes of 9/11. Participants gathered not only to run but to ensure that the legacies of those lost and the sacrifices made by first responders continue to be celebrated year after year.
Among the participants was Preston Hart, who has taken part in the event for many years. Hart recognized the critical importance of honoring first responders, acknowledging them as the true heroes in society, a sentiment shared by many attendees throughout the day.
In addition to the 5K race, the event included various activities aimed at fostering community spirit and awareness about the ongoing impact of 9/11. Participants were encouraged to engage in conversations about empathy and support for first responders, aligning with the foundation’s mission to empower and uplift those in service.
The Tunnel to Towers 5K event not only serves as a commemorative race but also acts as a reminder of the resilience and unity that followed the September 11 attacks. In honoring these heroes, the community of Augusta continues to show its commitment to never forgetting the sacrifices made by those on that fateful day.
The importance of events like the Tunnel to Towers 5K cannot be overstated, as they bridge generations and help individuals understand significant historical events while fostering a sense of collective identity and responsibility toward honoring past sacrifices.
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Additional Resources
- WFXG: Augusta Marks 9/11
- Wikipedia
- WJBF: Community Honors 9/11 Heroes
- Google Search: 9/11 Tunnel to Towers 5K
- Augusta Jags: Community Service
- Encyclopedia Britannica: September 11
- Dignity Memorial: Shirley Shapiro
- Google News: Tunnel to Towers Foundation
Author: STAFF HERE AUGUSTA WRITER
AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER The AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAugusta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Augusta, Richmond County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Arts in the Heart Festival, Westobou Festival, and Masters Week. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Augusta Metro Chamber of Commerce and Greater Augusta Arts Council, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as Textron Specialized Vehicles, Cardinal Health, and Nutrien. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
