Hundreds of first responders climb Stone Mountain to commemorate 23rd anniversary of 9/11

 STONE MOUNTAIN, GA– Firefighters and first responders from multiple agencies challenged themselves to a one-mile climb—equivalent to 160 flights of stairs—to the summit of Stone Mountain today in commemoration of the 23rd anniversary of the Sept. 11 attacks on the United States.

Wearing a full complement of firefighting gear, the group tested their endurance in honor of the 343 firefighters, paramedics, and 72 law enforcement officers who lost their lives on September 11, 2001. Over 600 participants from more than 50 agencies took part in the climb, making this the largest event to date.

This annual tradition began in 2014 with a small group of Fayetteville firefighters making the climb in full turnout gear. Over the years, the event has grown significantly, attracting firefighters and first responders from across Georgia.