On September 11, 2001, New York City firefighter Stephen Siller made the ultimate sacrifice. He took his gear and ran through the Brooklyn Battery Tunnel towards the Twin Towers. Siller lost his life while saving others. To honor his heroism, Siller’s family founded Tunnel to Towers.

The organization helps veterans and first responders, providing over 1,700 mortgage-free homes to families of fallen service members and disabled veterans. The group also supports over 20,000 homeless veterans and organizes events nationwide to commemorate America’s heroes.

“While we have time, let us do good.” – Stephen Siller

Frank Siller, Tunnel to Towers CEO and Stephen Siller’s brother, has expressed concern about the fading memory of 9/11. He warns that online commentators sometimes justify or belittle the attacks. Despite this, Frank ensures that Tunnel to Towers will honor the legacy of 9/11 heroes, including 343 FDNY members.

Tunnel to Towers’ 9/11 Institute educates K-12 students on everyday heroism demonstrated on 9/11, showcasing America’s resilience. Their mobile 9/11 exhibit has reached nearly all states and Canada.

This year, Tunnel to Towers introduced the “Steel Across America” display. A 16,000-pound steel beam from the World Trade Center traveled over 10,500 miles to 35 stops in the U.S. and concluded in New York City.

The organization also unveiled the 343 Homes Initiative. This project aims to provide 343 mortgage-free homes to families of fallen first responders and catastrophically injured service members, marking the sacrifice of 343 FDNY firefighters on 9/11.

Tunnel to Towers’ “In the Line of Duty Programs” have delivered over 1,700 mortgage-free homes, with 220 of them being custom Smart Homes. These homes are designed to be fully accessible for injured veterans and first responders.

A recent opinion piece by Frank Siller reiterates Stephen’s legacy: “Stephen’s life and heroic death remind us to live fully and do good.”