Worksop Firefighter Completes 9/11 Stair Climb For 25th Anniversary

As the world marks 25 years since the events of 11 September 2001, a firefighter from Worksop Fire Station has returned from Atlanta after taking part in a memorial challenge honouring the firefighters who lost their lives during the attacks.

Firefighter Ben Shepherd travelled to Georgia, USA, to join colleagues from across the UK, Ireland, and the United States in the annual 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. The event sees participants climb the equivalent of the 110 storeys of the World Trade Centre towers in tribute to the 343 firefighters who made the ultimate sacrifice while responding to the attacks.

The climb brought together members of the global firefighting community, united in remembrance and respect for those who ran towards danger, whilst raising funds for three important charities: The Terry Farrell Firefighters Fund, Fire Fighters Charity, and Blue Light Card Foundation, supporting the firefighting and wider emergency service community when it comes to mental and physical health, both in the UK and U.S. 

For Ben, taking part in the challenge was both a physical and emotional experience. 

Reflecting on the challenge, he said: “I am honoured and deeply humbled to have been in Atlanta, climbing side-by-side with our American brothers and sisters to pay tribute to the 343 firefighters who gave everything on 9/11.

“Every single step carried the weight of their sacrifice, but the warmth, camaraderie, and open-armed acceptance from the local fire service made a heavy day unforgettable. I am beyond grateful to have been welcomed into this community and to help ensure their legacy is never forgotten. 

“It was an experience that will live with me forever!”

Twenty-five years on, the legacy of 343 firefighters who lost their lives continues to resonate across fire services worldwide. Their actions serve as a reminder of the risks firefighters face in protecting their communities. 

Chief Fire Officer Craig Parkin DL said: “We are incredibly proud of Ben for representing Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service at such a significant event. 

“The 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb is an opportunity to remember the extraordinary bravery shown by emergency service personnel on that day and to honour those who made the sacrifice. 

“As we all mark the 25th anniversary of 9/11, it is important that we continue to remember those who lost their lives and the lasting impact the events of that day had on firefighters across the world.” 

Congratulations to Ben and our colleagues from other Services who completed the climb, and for representing the UK Fire and Rescue Service family.

If you would still like to donate to Ben, you can do so by clicking here.