This year, the Tunnel to Towers Young Professionals Network is climbing in honor of Port Authority Police Officer Donald J. McIntyre. On the morning of September 11, 2001, he assisted in the rescue efforts at the South Tower. When the plane struck the North Tower, he immediately locked up his post in Jersey City and headed to the World Trade Center. Donald was last seen climbing the stairwell near the 32nd floor of the South Tower. He died a hero and helped countless civilians. Donald knew the meaning of service as the son of a NYPD police officer. On February 26, 1993, he assisted workers to safety after the World Trade Center bombing.
Donald’s heroic actions on that fateful day were a testament to the countless lives he touched during his 38 years. Beyond his decorated career in the PAPD, Donald was a loving husband to Jeannine and a devoted father to Caitlyn, Donald, and Lauren. His high energy, multitasking nature, and his willingness to help others was endearing to those who knew him.
This year, the Tunnel to Towers’ Young Professionals Network has dedicated its climb to Donald’s memory. It is a profound honor for the T2T YPN to share the legacy of a man who embodied the very best of us. On September 11, 2001, he demonstrated his bravery and commitment to helping those in his community. We are deeply proud to share his story and pay tribute to the sacrifice that Donald made.
About the NYC Climb:
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.
