Frank Siller reflects on a day that forever changed his life: September 11, 2001. That morning, Frank anxiously tried to contact his younger brother, Stephen, a firefighter who was at Ground Zero. Despite repeated attempts from his phone, the silence confirmed his fears. Stephen was not coming home.
Family and friends gathered at Frank’s house, watching the horrific news unfold. The reality of Stephen’s fate sank in as Frank took a call from Richie Obermeyer, a neighborhood firefighter. Richie, calling from the scene, confirmed the devastating news: no one was coming home.
Stephen’s passing was not only a monumental loss for his family but also a profound reminder of the sacrifices made by first responders. Known for his resilience, Stephen had overcome adversity since childhood. He was an orphan from the age of ten and later became a loving husband and father to five children.
Frank recalls Stephen’s dedication to helping others, a principle instilled by their parents, who followed the teachings of Saint Francis of Assisi. Stephen’s last act of heroism on 9/11 embodied the philosophy of ‘doing good.’
To honor Stephen’s legacy, Frank and his family founded the Tunnel to Towers Foundation. This organization continues Stephen’s mission, aiding America’s heroes and their families. The Foundation carries forward the spirit of sacrifice and service that Stephen exemplified. Frank’s book, ‘Let Us Do Good,’ published by HarperCollins, tells this poignant story.
