Members of the Bartlesville Fire and Police departments completed a 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb on Thursday morning in downtown Bartlesville. The event honored the first responders who lost their lives during the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks. Participants climbed 110 stories during the event, symbolizing the height of the World Trade Center.
Twenty-nine members of the Bartlesville Fire and Police departments took part in a 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb on Thursday in downtown Bartlesville. The solemn tribute honored the first responders who lost their lives during the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks.
Participants climbed 110 stories during the event — equivalent to the height of the World Trade Center – to honor the courage and selflessness of those who responded that day.
According to Fire Chief H.C. Call, the stair climb paid tribute to those who died on 9/11, including 343 New York City firefighters. Seventeen members of the Bartlesville Fire Department participated in the climb.
“This climb was a symbol of respect, remembrance and unity,” said Call. “Every step we took was in memory of the heroes who ran toward danger so others could live.”
Twelve members of the Bartlesville Police Department also participated in the event to honor the sacrifice of law enforcement personnel.
“This memorial stair climb is a powerful reminder of the bravery and sacrifice shown on 9/11,” said Police Chief Kevin Ickleberry. “It’s an honor to stand alongside our fire department to pay tribute to those who gave everything in service to others.”
Phillips 66 partnered with the City’s first responders to host the inaugural stair climb at the Phillips Building in downtown Bartlesville.
“Phillips 66 is honored to support the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb as a way to remember the lives lost and to honor the courage of the first responders who answered the call that day,” said Jenny Brown, Phillips 66 Community Relations Sr. Advisor. “Standing with our community in this event reflects our values of service, resilience, and commitment to never forget.”
Phillips 66 employee Derrick Gore volunteered approximately 40 hours crafting a unique stand to hold the ceremonial bell. Each participant carried the name and photo of a fallen firefighter or police officer. After completing the climb, they placed the name badge on the bell stand and rang the bell.
