The Capital Memorial Stair Climb is not a race, but rather a tribute honoring the sacrifices of fallen heroes - both near and far.

Fulfilling a promise to "NEVER FORGET" their brothers and sisters who have died in the line of duty, 343 firefighters, 70 law enforcement officers and 8 EMTs (the number of firefighters/law enforcement/EMTs that perished at Ground Zero with the collapse of the Twin Towers) climb 84 floors.Most climbers wear their personal protective equipment.

ALL climbers wear the name and picture of a hero they are climbing in the memory of.

"We climb because they climbed"

On the morning of September 11, 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.

Active Duty Firefighters and Law Enforcement Officers are invited to take part in this memorial event.

Climb will held on Sunday, September 10th, 2023. Event registration begins at 8:00 am and the climb will start at 8:46 am.

If you have any questions, please contact the event director at director@capitalstairclimb.com