The first known 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb event occurred on September 11, 2003 during “Operation Enduring Freedom” in Parwan Province, Afghanistan. Albuquerque Fire Department Lieutenant Charles Cogburn scaled a two story building 55 times wearing body armor, a helmet and an M-4. Lt Cogburn returned home and on the following September 11th (2004) the climb was brought back to Albuquerque and given the title Albuquerque Firefighters Memorial Stair Climb. Firefighters from Engine 5 and Engine 2 were dispatched at 8:46am (the time the initial dispatch of FDNY units occured) to the Bank of Albuquerque Building in downtown Albuquerque. The building is 22 stories tall and it was climbed 5 times.
We like many others gathered to recognize the first responders of 9/11/2001 – we were 9 days late but it was the closest date open for a Q.
In order to complete the task at hand – one had to climb 7 flights of stairs 16 times. (112 flights) The original firefighters had to climb 110 flights. Imagine they had their gear on and they never got rest as they climbed down the 7 flights of stairs. Last year I couldn’t finish I was at 11.3. This year I finished with time to spare.
Gabrielle, King Kong, WIllie Catfish and Hokey Pokey inspired with their rucks. Special tclaps to Hokey for adding a 40 lb weight vest. Very impressive. Tclaps to Gabrielle for thinking to bring the door stops – the improved airflow was a huge game changer. I had nightmares about the smell and humidity from the climb last year as I went to bed.
Most of the PAX finished the climb this year. Tclaps to all of the finishers.
As we climbed I asked the PAX to reflect on being men who would rush to danger to help, instead of seeking their own comfort in a tough situation.
Thanks for allowing me to lead.
