STONE MOUNTAIN, Ga. — Hundreds of firefighters and first responders are expected to make the 1-mile climb up Stone Mountain on Friday to honor those killed in the 9/11 attacks.
This is the 12th year of the annual trek, and organizers expect 400 to 500 firefighters and first responders.
The climb started a dozen years ago with a handful of Fayetteville firefighters. Now departments from across the state take part.
Firefighters wear full turnout gear to honor the 110 floors of the Twin Towers while remembering the 343 firefighters lost on 9/11 25 years ago.
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“What started as a small group has just turned into this massive thing,” Fayetteville Fire Department Batt. Chief Josh Collins said. “This is our small way to give back on this day.”
Before the climb starts, firefighters will also take a moment to remember firefighters lost throughout the year.
That includes Rockdale County firefighter Juan Smith, who was killed in the line of duty in June.