Always my hero

Today was the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb and like last year, Mike participated along with hundreds of other firefighters.

The bagpipes started and the firefighters assembled in front of the Suntrust building

 

Commemorative prayers were spoken

And off they went, ready to climb 110 stories in honor of the fallen.

 

This year Mike wore full turn-out gear - it looked heavy and hot!

My favorites were those who carried the American flag with them.

The crowd was much larger than last year and they cheered every time a firefighter completed one of the 5 trips up the stairs. They were even standing in the stairwells to provide more encouragement!

I just barely caught Mike as he finished his climb!

Mike calls this his 'Baywatch Shot.'

I tried to lift his jacket and tank for him and it was too heavy (and drenched in sweat) for me to even lift halfway. I can't believe he climbed in it!

Mike actually had to work today so his crew was still on duty. Halfway up the stairs on his 3rd trip, they caught a call and had to walk back down...only to be cancelled. They turned around and walked right back up.

I'm in awe of the commraderie and determination of all those who participated. We can never forget what these men and women sacrifice to protect us, every single day of our lives.