SURFSIDE BEACH, S.C. (WBTW) — Surfside Beach residents and the town’s fire department are coming together to honor and remember those who lost their lives during 9/11 as Wednesday marks the 23rd anniversary of the attacks.
Many people will climb the stairs of the Surfside Beach pier 28 times, representing the 100 flights of stairs climbed by many first responders at the World Trade Center.
The town is encouraging firefighters and police officers to wear their protective gear while climbing the stairs.
For those who aren’t first responders, you can wear a weighted vest. The typical weight of protective gear and equipment carried by first responders is about 100 lbs.
Surfside Beach Fire Department Capt. Chauncey Kelly said it’s very humbling and he feels honored to do it.
“It’s somber, but it’s also to memorialize everyone who lost their lives and the people that do it every day,” he said. “The men and women, all public safety that are able to put their lives on the line every day and don’t ask twice.”