The decision to participate in the annual Tunnel to Towers Tower Climb was not difficult, and is personal for me and my family. My son-in-law, Marine Corporal Colin Pascik, a bi-lateral amputee, is a Tunnel to Towers Smart Home recipient. Colin's journey has been one of courage and resilience, and the support of Tunnel to Towers has been a beacon of hope for him and his family.
My determination to raise funds for the T2T organization is fueled by the knowledge of how the smart home provided by T2T has transformed Colin's life. I also cannot help but think about the countless other veterans and families of the fallen who could benefit from the same level of support. With each floor I conquer, I will draw strength from the sacrifices made by US servicemen and women and first responders around the world.
Your donation will be a testament to the power of community and solidarity, and will make a difference in the lives of others who have sacrificed so much for their country.
On behalf of all the veterans and their families whose lives will be positively impacted, THANK YOU for your generous donation to this amazing cause. Your support is truly making a difference in the lives of those who have sacrificed so much.
~ Christine Flynn and Colin's Crew
About the Event:
Each year since 2015, the Tunnel to Towers Foundation has held the Tunnel to Towers Tower Climb NYC at One World Observatory at One World Trade Center in New York City. One thousand participants climb 104 stories, symbolizing strength, hope and the resiliency of the American spirit.
The event celebrates the life and sacrifice of all 9/11 heroes, including FDNY firefighter Stephen Siller and FDNY Captain Billy Burke.
On September 11, 2001, Stephen Siller, a FDNY firefighter assigned to Brooklyn’s Squad 1, had just finished his shift and was on his way to play golf with his brothers. He suddenly got word over his scanner that an airplane had hit the North Tower of the World Trade Center. Stephen drove his truck to the entrance of the Brooklyn Battery Tunnel, strapped 60 lbs. of gear to his back and raced on foot through the tunnel to the Twin Towers. There, he gave up his life while saving others.
Captain William F. Burke, Jr. and his men were on the 27th floor of the North Tower when the South Tower collapsed. Billy immediately alerted the Captain of Ladder Co. 6 and the Officer of Ladder Co. 24, his original company, of the collapse. They, along with their men, immediately evacuated along with a number of civilians they were assisting, all surviving. Minutes later the North Tower collapsed and Billy perished along with the other innocents on September 11, 2001. He selflessly repeated, “keep going, I’m right behind you,” to keep his men moving to safety.
The view from One World Observatory at the top of One World Trade Center is nothing short of spectacular. After making the emotional climb, participants explore expansive, panoramic views in every direction from a unique perspective. One of the major highlights, of course, is viewing the two reflecting pools that mark the footprints of where the Twin Towers once stood.
