Story Submitted by CWO Kenneth Munro, RCAF Deputy Fire Marshall
Story written by Cpl Tracy Hillaby
I remember that fateful day when I watched the horrific events unfold as they were broadcast globally. The sadness I felt could not be put into words as I thought of all those lost and the families that were grieving the loss of their loved ones.
It would be 15 years later, in 2016, that the tragedy of that day would take on a new meaning when I became a Firefighter and once again, I would feel a profound sadness for those lost. In 2018, I would begin my service as a Firefighter in the Canadian Armed Forces.
Four years later I am currently on a 6-month deployment at CFS Alert. To commemorate the 343 FDNY Firefighters who gave their lives I decided to do the 9/11 stair climb this year. It is a 110-story stair climb done in full bunker gear, SCBA and helmet.
I started training 5 weeks prior and at 1200h on Sept 11 myself and 2 others climbed the 2-story staircase in the HAPS building at CFS Alert 55 times for a total of 110 stories.
I can’t begin to imagine what the thoughts were of the 343 who perished or all those that worked so tirelessly and selflessly. I felt the least I could do was my small part to pay tribute to them and ensure that they are not forgotten.
Donations were collected and will be sent to the Canadian Fallen Firefighters Foundation. A grand total of $500 was raised.
I have been serving as a Firefighter in the Armed Forces for just over 4 years. I am currently posted to 14 Wing Greenwood. I have 3 grown children (Jarett 25, Ashton 22 and Rylan 19) and I have three grandsons (Jack 2.5, Owen 1.5, Kash 8 months).
There are so many people that have encouraged and supported me as I pursued my career as a Firefighter and without them, I would not be where I am today.
I am also incredibly grateful for all those that supported me as I prepared for the stair climb and all those whose who cheered and gave words of encouragement during the event.
PS: The Canadian Fallen Firefighters Foundation has expressed its deep appreciation to Cpl. Hillaby for her incredible effort!