Memorial Climb at The Manhattan

Community One was honored to participate in the Dunwoody-Manhattan Memorial Climb, which honored those who lost their lives in the September 11, 2001 attacks.  

The program started at 8:00 AM with a moment of silent reflection then two vocalists showered us with American spirit with joyful renditions of the National Anthem and America the Beautiful.  After a brief program, those participating in the Climb began the 26 story ascent at 8:46 AM — the same time the first plane struck the World Trade Center in New York ten years ago.  

Many firefighters were dressed out in their heavy rescue uniforms –  and carried hoses and tanks of oxygen, to better remember how the fallen firefighters were struggling as they lost their lives. The climb was sobering as the DeKalb Firefighters had posted the names of all the fallen firefighters and police from the attacks.  The names stretched from the bottom of the building to the top.  Many climbers touched each name and said a silent “thank you” to each victim as they climbed.  At the top, participants were greeted with a perfect blue sky as they walked out on The Sky-lounge of the Manhattan for a bottle of water and a rest prior to beginning their descent.

The best part of the day was the encouragement that came from every volunteer and participant.  The stairwell was swarming with people going in both directions and cheers kept participants from giving up.  The sense of community was great and those from The  Manhattan and Community One alike felt how good it feels to give.

Contributed by Helen N. Smith, Community Association Manager – The Manhattan COA.

To see the DeKalb Fire & Rescue Facebook photo album from the event, click here.