Wednesday, first responders across southern Colorado honored those who lost their lives on 9/11. Firefighters from across the state came together for a ninth year to hike the Manitou Incline in full gear, paying tribute to those who died on September 11, 2001.
The Manitou Fire Department tells says firefighters aren’t required to hike the incline Wednesday, but every year, they keep coming.
Putting this into perspective, the incline has an elevation gain of 2,000 feet, which is roughly 700 feet higher than one of the Twin Towers.
“It’s worth it, I’m not stopping,” said Caleb Beilby, a firefighter. “I joined fire service at young age, and it’s always been in still to me what happened on that day.”
To this firefighter, the climb was a moment to remember the day again. The group made it to the top after two hours. Some say it’s inspirational.
The tragedy that was intended to divide the country, united people instead.
“To me, that was the greatest America I’ve ever lived (in),” said Lt. David Crawford. “We are untied stronger than ever. Don’t ever let that go.”