Local 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb event honors the fallen heroes

The Imperial County 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb honors the fallen heroes of that tragic day – New York firefighters, police and emergency personnel.

Alfredo Estrada Jr., Imperial County Fire Chief, said, ” So remember as you climb those stairs today all of those who laid their lives to save people in the twin towers. Remember all of those who laid their lives for their country. ”

On Saturday’s event, the 343 first-responders who lost their lives were each represented by a climbing participant.

Ernie Mariscal , U.S. army veteran, said, “I was in the military and when this happened, of course, we were deployed and after that forever changed my life knowing that I went into combat for this reason because we were attacked.”

The participants climbed the stairways of the Imperial Valley Fairgrounds the equivalent of the 110 stories of the world trade center symbolically completing the fallen’s heroic journey.

Local resident Asikeh Kanu said, “I’m climbing because it’s just important to remember all the victims of nine-eleven, especially the firefighters and all the things they did on that day.”

Isaac Donayre , Brawley American Legion Post #60, said, ” We’re one nation. United we stand. Divided we fall. We all need to be here for each other, whether that’s thru tragic event or even just every day, help your neighbor. ”

Over $10,000 were raised to help the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation.

Please watch our newscast for more information.