Thousands Honored First Responders in NYC Tunnel to Towers
Participants retraced a firefighter's final path to raise funds for fallen first responders and their families.
Updated on Sept. 27, 2026 in Running
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Do you believe annual commemorative runs effectively support families of first responders in your community?
Thousands of runners gathered in New York City on September 27, 2026, for the annual Tunnel to Towers 5K. This year's event marked the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001, terror attacks.
Why it matters
The event provides vital financial support for families of fallen first responders and military personnel. It serves as a tangible way to maintain community connection and honor those lost in the Global War on Terror.
Participation in the event has grown significantly, with 40,000 runners expected for this 25th-anniversary milestone compared to the 1,500 who joined the first run in 2002. The total funding outcomes from the 2026 run remain under calculation.
The players
Stephen Siller
A firefighter whose final journey to the World Trade Center inspired the route of this annual memorial run.
FDNY
The department that lost 343 firefighters on September 11, 2001, and continues to be honored through this event.
John McNamara
A firefighter who lost his life to 9/11-related cancer, highlighting the long-term health toll on first responders.
The details
The 5K route follows the path firefighter Stephen Siller took on September 11, 2001, running through the Hugh L. Carey Tunnel to reach Ground Zero. As part of the commemoration, a steel beam from the South Tower was paraded through Manhattan streets. The procession was led by two horses to honor those who gave their lives during the attacks and in subsequent conflicts.
Timeline
September 11, 2001: The original terrorist attacks occurred at the World Trade Center.
2002: The inaugural Tunnel to Towers run was held.
2009: Firefighter John McNamara passed away from 9/11-related cancer.
September 27, 2026: The annual Tunnel to Towers 5K run took place in New York City.
Health Landscape
This annual 5K run marks the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001, terror attacks. It remains a key fixture in honoring the memory of the 343 FDNY firefighters and over 7,000 U.S. service members lost in the ensuing conflicts.
This event highlights the long-term health legacy for first responders, including risks like 9/11-related cancers. If you have concerns about occupational exposures or lingering health impacts, discussing screening options with your primary care physician is an important step.
The takeaway
The Tunnel to Towers run emphasizes the importance of community remembrance and ongoing support for those affected by historical trauma. Readers are encouraged to keep track of local memorial events that support first responder health and family welfare.
Further reading
For more on community-focused fitness events, see Running.
Live Poll
Do you believe annual commemorative runs effectively support families of first responders in your community?
