Firefighters and community members across the Lowcountry gathered on Thursday to pay tribute to the lives lost in the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, marking 23 years since the tragedy that changed America forever.
Dorchester County Firefighters Honor 9/11 Victims with Bridge Walk
Dorchester County Fire Rescue firefighters honored fallen heroes by walking across the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge in full turnout gear. The walk commemorated the 343 New York City firefighters who died while trying to save lives at the World Trade Center, as well as the nearly 3,000 people killed at the Twin Towers, the Pentagon, and aboard Flight 93.
Fire Chief Tres Atkinson emphasized the importance of remembrance:
“We must never forget, and we must continue to say their names and share their stories. For those stories are how their legacy will live on.”
Memorial Stair Climb Held in Charleston
The day of remembrance continued with other tributes around the Lowcountry. At the U.S. Coast Guard Charleston Sector, community members and first responders participated in a memorial stair climb, symbolizing the climb of firefighters inside the Twin Towers on that tragic day.
Participants climbed the equivalent of 110 stories, the same number of floors as the World Trade Center buildings, honoring the first responders who sacrificed their lives to save others.
Lowcountry Joins Nation in Remembrance
The bridge walk and stair climb were among many 9/11 memorial events across Charleston County and the state, reminding people of the importance of unity, courage, and sacrifice. For many first responders, it was not only a tribute but also a chance to pass on the stories of bravery to the next generation.
More than two decades later, the memory of September 11 remains as powerful as ever. Through symbolic acts like the Ravenel Bridge walk and stair climbs, Lowcountry residents and first responders continue to show that they will never forget the lives lost and the heroes who gave everything.
