Claudia Tenney: “343 firefighters, 70 law enforcement officers, and 8 emergency medical technicians. Seventeen years ago our Nation was…”

“343 firefighters, 70 law enforcement officers, and 8 emergency medical technicians. Seventeen years ago our Nation was changed forever. While the Twin Towers burned, thousands of first responders rushed to save the lives of their fellow citizens, knowing the dangers ahead; 421 first responders made the ultimate sacrifice that day. Side by side, they climbed 110 flights of stairs, in nearly 70 pounds of gear. It was the largest high-rise rescue operation in history. ``We climb because they climbed.'' In an inspiring, touching tribute this Saturday, hundreds of our local first responders will take part in the annual Central New York Memorial Stair Climb. Wearing the same 70 pounds of gear, they will make the same climb at the Utica State Office Building to keep the memory of our fallen heroes alive. Mr. Speaker, in the face of the worst of humanity, our Nation saw the best of humanity in those brave men and women. Let us never forget their selfless sacrifice. ____________________”