Thousands of runners participated in the annual Tunnel to Towers 5K Run & Walk on September 24, 2023, in New York City, retracing the route taken by fallen firefighter Stephen Siller on the day of the September 11 terror attacks. This event not only paid tribute to the victims but also raised over $1 million for the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, which supports the families of fallen first responders and injured veterans.
The Tunnel to Towers Foundation, named in honor of Siller, has been committed to its mission for 24 years. The foundation provides mortgage-free homes to the families of first responders who have died in the line of duty, as well as “smart homes” for veterans with severe injuries. “This event is the cornerstone of the Tunnel to Towers Foundation,” said Frank Siller, Chairman and CEO. “It’s how we honored the life of my brother Stephen in 2002, and it remains a moving tribute to all of those lost on 9/11.”
This year, the event saw participation from over 30,000 runners and walkers, including a group of more than 50 firefighters from France, who joined to support the cause. Fundraising efforts are expected to continue for several more weeks, with the foundation already surpassing $2.4 million in donations through corporate and individual contributions.
Among the standout participants was Keegan Muldowney, a police officer from Potsdam, New York, who led his team, the Muldowney Moondogs, to raise a record-breaking $135,000 in honor of his cousin, Ritchie “Moondog” Muldowney. “The good that Frank Siller and the Siller family do for catastrophically wounded veterans and the families of fallen first responders is such a powerful message,” Muldowney stated. “There’s no selling, there’s no pitching. Everybody that we talked to wants to contribute to the good that the Tunnel to Towers Foundation is doing.”
The Muldowney family has been involved with the foundation since its inception, and they have ramped up their efforts to raise awareness and funds throughout the year. Muldowney mentioned hosting events in various locations, including Florida and Long Island, which contributed to their fundraising success. “The next generation on the sacrifices that were given before us is as important as anything else that we’re doing right now,” he emphasized.
Participants ran and walked through the iconic Brooklyn-Battery Tunnel, reflecting on the significance of the event and the sacrifices made by first responders. The Tunnel to Towers Foundation aims to ensure that the legacy of those lost on September 11 is never forgotten.
Muldowney underscored the importance of educating future generations about these sacrifices. “The true meaning of ‘Never forget’ is that the next generation needs to be educated and also never forget.”
As the foundation continues to receive donations, the impact of these fundraising efforts will resonate within the communities it serves, providing essential support to families in need and honoring the memory of heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice.
