The McAllen Stair Climb is a 9/11 memorial event that strives to keep the promise to Never Forget those who lost their lives when the twin towers fell. Hundreds of first responders lost their lives that day. Although the event is first responder focused, the community is invited to participate as a climber, volunteer, or sponsor. The morning begins with a solemn memorial ceremony to remember the fallen. Each procession is escorted in by pipes and drums. Participants will climb 110 floors to symbolize the height of the twin towers. The number of participants is limited to the number of fallen first responders and each participant will wear a tag with the name and photo of a fallen hero.
Most first responders wear their personal protective equipment to climb, but it is not a requirement.
On the morning of September 11th, 2001 thousands of New York's Bravest and Finest responded to the terrorist attacks in order to perform the largest rescue and high-rise firefighting operation in history.
Upon their arrival firefighters climbed the stairs of the 110 story buildings in their forty to sixty pounds of personal protective gear PLUS twenty to thirty pounds of additional firefighting equipment.
Law Enforcement Officers were right there beside them.
The most poignant connection to their story occurs when we climb because they climbed.
Witnessing the event provides spectators (family, friends and the general public) both an inspiring experience and intense reminder of the sacrifice, dedication and commitment required of those who serve and protect their communities around the world.
Where it all Started....
The McAllen Stair Climb (MSC) originated after several individuals felt that an event, similar in nature to other events around the country, was needed in the Rio Grande Valley to pay tribute to first responders of September 11, 2001. The McAllen Stair Climb was established in 2014 to facilitate the planning and financial framework of the stair climb. The MSC Planning Committee secured the Neuhaus Tower in McAllen as the venue for the climb. There are currently 3 beneficiaries that support first responders at state and local levels. The current beneficiaries are the Texas Line of Duty Death Task Force, the Rio Grande Valley Firefighters and Fire Marshal's Association Health and Safety Fund, and McAllen Guns and Hoses. Each non-profit organization will receive donations at the completion of this year’s stair climb. The MSC is a sanctioned event of the Association of Memorial Stair Climbs, a 501(c)3, which strives to support stair climbs in the goal to Never Forget the fallen first responders lost on 9/11 and those that we continue to lose from 9/11 related illnesses.
Special thanks to: Cielo Realty, City of McAllen, McAllen Fire Department, our sponsors, volunteers, and planners that have made this event possible each year. We appreciate your support!