25th Anniversary
Honoring 25 Years of Memory, Service, and Sacrifice
In this 25th anniversary year of September 11, 2001, the Tunnel to Towers Foundation is embarking on the most comprehensive commemoration in our history—one that honors the past, serves those in need today, and educates the generations of tomorrow.
Steel Across America: Connecting a Nation
At the heart of our commemoration is Steel Across America, an unprecedented nationwide campaign that will transport an authentic steel beam from the World Trade Center to communities across the United States. From May through August 2026, this powerful symbol of reverence and resilience will visit landmark locations, sporting events, and town squares, creating moments of connection for those who lived through 9/11 and educational opportunities for those too young to remember. This journey represents more than remembrance—it’s a bridge between generations and a reminder that the spirit of service embodied by Stephen Siller, and so many others, continues to inspire Americans today.
343 Homes: A Living Memorial
In tribute to the 343 members of the New York City Fire Department who made the ultimate sacrifice on 9/11, Tunnel to Towers will deliver 343 mortgage-free homes throughout 2026. These homes will be provided through our Smart Home Program for catastrophically injured veterans and first responders, our Gold Star Family Home Program for the families of fallen military heroes, and our Fallen First Responder Home Program for the families of those who died in the line of duty. Each home represents a life lost, a family honored, and a promise kept.
Ending Veteran Homelessness
Our commitment extends to those who continue to struggle long after their service. Since launching our Homeless Veteran Program in 2022, we have already assisted 17,500 homeless veterans with housing and the wraparound services they desperately need. As we mark this solemn anniversary, we remain steadfast in our goal to eradicate homelessness among those who wore our nation’s uniform.
Never Forget: Educating the Next Generation
Our Never Forget programs will take center stage throughout 2026. Our educational curriculum will reach classrooms nationwide, our 9/11 Speakers Bureau will share firsthand accounts of heroism and sacrifice, and our 9/11 NEVER FORGET Mobile Exhibit will travel to communities across America, ensuring that young people understand the significance of 9/11 and the enduring importance of service before self.
Honoring Tradition in New York City
Our iconic Tunnel to Towers 5K Run & Walk NYC and Tower Climb NYC will hold special significance during this 25th anniversary year. These events, which retrace Stephen Siller’s heroic final journey, will bring together thousands who refuse to forget and remain committed to honoring those we lost.
“Twenty-five years ago, our nation faced its darkest day, but in that darkness, we witnessed the brightest examples of courage, sacrifice, and love,” said Frank Siller, Chairman and CEO of Tunnel to Towers Foundation. “As we mark this quarter-century milestone, we do so not just by looking back, but by continuing the mission that Stephen and so many heroes embodied—to serve others, to Never Forget, and to ensure that no sacrifice goes unrecognized. Through Steel Across America and our programs serving those who protect and defend us, we’re keeping that promise alive.”
9/11 Reflections
Heroic first responders, military members, government officials and survivors share stories about their experience on 9/11 and the aftermath of that fateful day. In the wake of many emotional journeys back to an extremely difficult time in American history, emerged the need to remind our nation of its vow to NEVER FORGET.
