The Tunnel to Towers Foundation has transported a 17,000-pound steel beam from the World Trade Center’s South Tower to Cincinnati, providing a unique opportunity for people distant from Ground Zero to experience a piece of 9/11 history. Frank Siller, Chairman and CEO of Tunnel to Towers Foundation, highlighted the importance of remembering the heroism and sacrifice of those who died and those who served during the attacks.

The Steel Across America tour is commemorating the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks with the steel beam traveling nationwide. It was brought to the Cincinnati Fire Museum, where former Marine Scott Nokes, along with local firefighters, FDNY members, veterans, first responders, and community members participated in the event. Nokes praised Tunnel to Towers for its support, noting the personal change the foundation brought to his life.

Nokes, who was deployed twice to Afghanistan, faced life-changing health issues in 2016 that resulted in him becoming a double below-the-knee amputee and legally blind. Tunnel to Towers provided him a custom, mortgage-free smart home in 2019, aiding his independence. Aside from working with Tunnel to Towers, Nokes mentors Neptune Emergency Services.

The occasion allowed attendees to view the artifact during a ceremony featuring various tributes, including a color guard, bagpipes, national anthem, blessing of the beam, moment of silence, remarks by fire and city leaders, and a steel flag presentation.

The beam acts as a mobile memorial, covering 21 states to honor the victims and first responders of 9/11. Following Cincinnati, future stops include the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, Massachusetts Fallen Heroes Memorial in Boston, and the White House, culminating in a return to New York City.

Tunnel to Towers delivers mortgage-free, accessible smart homes for severely injured U.S. veterans and first responders. This year, the foundation is commemorating the 343 FDNY firefighters who died on September 11 by providing 343 mortgage-free homes.