West Michigan firefighters honor fallen 9/11 first responders during memorial stair climb

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — The 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb returned to LMCU Ballpark Saturday morning.  

The annual event pays tribute to the 343 firefighters who selflessly gave their lives to save others on Sept. 11, 2001. 

Participants made four loops throughout LMCU Ballpark. That's equivalent to climbing the height of the World Trade Center. 

"It's important to me as I'm nearing the sunset of my career...I can still come out and, and physically do this or part of this, with some of our younger generations. Pass on the importance of some of these traditions and the importance of remembering those that came before us," Grand Rapids Fire Department Battalion Chief Scott Stevenson said.

New this year, kids learned all about fire safety. There's also a pancake breakfast after the climb. 

All money raised will go to the National Fallen Firefighter's Foundation, along with local firefighters and organizations that support them. 

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