Members of Humberside Fire and Rescue Service have successfully completed the Terry Farrell Firefighters Fund Memorial Stair Climb in Atlanta, Georgia, honouring those who lost their lives in the terrorist attacks of 11 September 2001 while raising funds for charities that support the fire and rescue service community.
On-Call firefighters Bart Wozny and David Welch and Area Manager Jason Kirby joined in travelling to the United States for the challenge, alongside 234 firefighters from across the UK and Ireland.
The Memorial Stair Climb saw participants climb the equivalent of 110 floors, matching the height of the World Trade Centre towers, in tribute to the 343 firefighters who lost their lives while responding to the attacks in New York.
Over the past several months, the trio have trained and fundraised in preparation for the event. Earlier this year, Bart and David completed a Memorial Stair Climb at St Mary's Stadium in Southampton wearing full firefighting PPE as part of their preparations.
The challenge in Atlanta proved particularly demanding, with temperatures in the stadium reaching approximately 36°C. Participants completed the climb in full firefighting kit, with a second lap forming part of the event, testing the endurance and resilience of everyone taking part.
More than 25 years on from the events of 9/11, the Memorial Stair Climb continues to provide an opportunity for members of the fire service to come together in remembrance while raising funds for charities that support firefighters and their families.
On-Call Firefighters Bart Wozny and David Welch said, “Completing the Memorial Stair Climb in full kit and 36°C heat was tough, but it was nothing compared to the sacrifice made by the 343 firefighters we were there to honour. We're proud to have represented Humberside Fire and Rescue Service.
Jason Kirby, Area Manager of People and Development said, " It was a privilege to take part in such a powerful act of remembrance. Climbing in honour of the 343 firefighters who lost their lives on 11 September 2001 was both humbling and inspiring. Despite the intense heat and physical challenge, the experience reinforced the strength, courage and camaraderie that define our Fire & Rescue Service. Thank you to everyone who has supported our fundraising efforts and helped us honour their memory.”
Before departing for Atlanta, the team received a special send-off at Heathrow Airport, where Heathrow Firefighters joined them alongside their aircraft and provided a blue-light escort to the runway in a show of support ahead of the challenge.
The fundraising efforts are supporting three charities that make a significant difference to members of the fire and rescue service community:
- The Terry Farrell Firefighters Fund (US Based Firefighter’s Charity)
- The Firefighter’s Charity
- The Blue Light Card Foundation
Phil Shillito, Chief Fire Officer and Chief Executive said, “I am incredibly proud of Bart, David and Jason for representing the Service at such a significant international event. Their commitment, determination and professionalism throughout this challenge reflects the very best of Humberside Fire and Rescue Service.
“The Memorial Stair Climb is a powerful act of remembrance, and their efforts have not only honoured those who lost their lives on 11 September 2001 but have also helped raise valuable funds for charities that continue to support the fire service community.”
Everyone at Humberside Fire and Rescue Service congratulates Bart, David and Jason on completing the challenge and thanks everyone who has supported their fundraising efforts through donations, messages of encouragement and sharing their story.
Donations remain open and support can still be shown via the fundraising pages below.
Fundraising links
- Jason Kirby: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/jason-kirby-1
- Wozny and Welch: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/memorial-stair-climb1