Canonsburg hosts annual Tunnel to Towers 5K event

On a Saturday in Canonsburg, Pennsylvania, hundreds gathered for the Tunnel to Towers 5K event, held just days before the 23rd anniversary of the September 11 attacks. Participants included officers, firefighters, and community members, all motivated by personal reasons to honor those who lost their lives that day. Chief Philip Boggs of the McDonald Volunteer Fire Department emphasized the significance of running in full gear to pay tribute to fallen firefighters. The event also served as a remembrance for two officers from Allegheny County who died in the line of duty, as noted by Deputy Chief Shawn Hudzinski. The Tunnel to Towers organization was founded in memory of Stephen Siller, who heroically ran towards the Twin Towers on September 11, 2001, to assist in evacuations. Vince Faith, co-chairman of the Tunnel to Towers Pittsburgh 5K, highlighted the dedication of participants, some of whom traveled from as far as Florida to take part in the event. The challenging course, described as having many hills, did not deter the runners, who expressed their willingness to tackle any obstacle in honor of the heroes of that tragic day. Organizers noted that this event, outside of New York City, boasts the highest participation and fundraising efforts in the nation. The collective aim is to ensure that the sacrifices made on September 11 are never forgotten, with every step taken during the race serving as a reminder of the bravery displayed by first responders.