Steel Across America: Tunnel to Towers Foundation Commemorates 25 Years Since 9/11 at Space Center Houston in Houston, Texas 

The tour will next visit the Long Center in Austin, Texas on June 2. 

HOUSTON, TEXAS [May 31, 2026] — On Sunday, May 31st, the Tunnel to Towers Foundation’s ‘Steel Across America’ tour visited Space Center Houston in Houston, Texas. 

For the tenth stop on a nationwide tour in honor of the 25^th anniversary of 9/11, Steel Across America brought a steel beam recovered from the World Trade Center to Houston, offering Space Center Houston visitors and local community members a rare opportunity to experience this sacred artifact firsthand. 

The morning began with a ceremonial Steel Blessing Ceremony as the tour arrived at the staging area under a flag arch, accompanied by a ceremonial procession with the Honor Guard in place. Bagpipes played Amazing Grace as the blessing of the steel was performed, a solemn and moving tribute to those lost on September 11, 2001. Guests were then welcomed inside for the official program. 

The ceremony was hosted by Jack Kielty, who welcomed guests and delivered opening remarks before cueing the presentation of colors by the Color Guard and Honor Guard. The national anthem was then performed to open the formal proceedings. 

Kielty shared personal remarks reflecting on the meaning of the Steel Across America tour before introducing Anthony Lacorazza, Tunnel to Towers Foundation Board Member. Lacorazza addressed the crowd with acknowledgments and shoutouts to the supporters, sponsors, and community partners who have made the tour possible, with special recognition extended to Captain Anthony Tortorice for his contributions to the event. 

Kielty then introduced Keesha Bullock, Chief Operating and Strategy Officer of Space Center Houston, who delivered remarks on behalf of the venue, speaking to the honor of welcoming Steel Across America to one of the nation’s most iconic institutions and the importance of preserving the memory and legacy of September 11 for future generations. 

Thomas Muñoz, Houston Fire Chief, then took the stage to deliver remarks, speaking about the sacrifice and bravery of first responders on September 11 and the importance of never forgetting. 

Stephen Siller Jr., son of fallen FDNY firefighter Stephen Siller, then addressed the crowd, reflecting on his father’s legacy and the mission that drives the Tunnel to Towers Foundation’s cross-country journey. 

“Space Center Houston is a place that celebrates the courage it takes to go where no one has gone before — and that spirit of fearless service is exactly what we saw on September 11,” said Stephen Siller Jr., son of fallen FDNY firefighter Stephen Siller. “The first responders who ran toward the Twin Towers that morning were cut from the same cloth as the heroes this place honors. Steel Across America is our way of making sure their sacrifice is never forgotten — not just in New York, but in every city, in every state, and in every American heart.” 

As part of the ceremonial proceedings, Stephen Siller Jr. presented a commemorative steel flag to Keesha Bullock, in recognition of Space Center Houston’s hospitality in hosting Steel Across America and its commitment to honoring the nation’s heroes. The custom-built flag features the New York City skyline with the Twin Towers standing tall, incorporating World Trade Center steel — presented only to those who demonstrate honorable dedication to the Foundation’s mission. 

Following the formal program, the steel beam was made available for all guests to approach and reflect upon, along with the tour’s mobile exhibit. 

The steel is an everlasting reminder of the selfless courage and service of first responders who gave their lives on September 11, 2001, including New York City firefighter Stephen Siller. Recovered from Ground Zero in the days following the attacks by the thousands of first responders who answered the call, the beam stands as a symbol of sacrifice, resilience, and the unbreakable American spirit that emerged from tragedy. 

On June 2^nd, Steel Across America will make its next official stop at the Long Center in Austin, TX.