Two members of the Southern Gap High School community honored the courage and sacrifice of America’s first responders by completing the 9/11 StairMaster Challenge on Friday evening.
Southern Gap wrestler and National Honor Society member Colten Clevinger joined chemistry teacher Eddie Smith in completing the stair-climbing challenge in remembrance of those who responded to the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001.
The challenge represents the stairs climbed by firefighters and other emergency personnel inside the World Trade Center towers. While thousands of people were attempting to escape the buildings, first responders climbed toward the danger to help those still trapped inside.
For Clevinger and Smith, the tribute carried an even deeper meaning. Both are members of the Big Rock Fire Department and serve their own community as firefighters.
The physical challenge offered the pair an opportunity to reflect on the strength and determination shown by the first responders that day, including the 343 members of the New York City Fire Department who lost their lives.
By completing the challenge, Clevinger and Smith helped ensure that the bravery and sacrifice displayed on Sept. 11 will not be forgotten.
