9/11 Steel Beam Arrives at West Point

The Tunnel to Towers Foundation’s Steel Across America tour brought a 21-foot steel beam from the South Tower of the World Trade Center to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. At 16,900 pounds, this beam serves as a physical reminder of the September 11 attacks.

The ceremony marks the tour’s 33rd stop, commemorating the 25th anniversary of the attacks. West Point Superintendent Lt. Gen. James B. Bartholomees III highlighted the steel’s significance in linking the bravery of first responders on 9/11 to those who have since served in military conflicts. He said, “As we approach the 25th anniversary of 9/11, this piece of steel reminds us of the courage of first responders like Stephen Siller and the countless Americans who answered the call in the years that followed, including generations of West Point graduates.”

The event included a color guard and Pipes & Drums procession by members of the NYPD, FDNY, and Port Authority Police Department. Participants listened to the national anthem, followed by an invocation and blessing of the steel, and a moment of reflection accompanied by “Amazing Grace.”

Frank Siller, chairman and CEO of Tunnel to Towers and brother of fallen FDNY firefighter Stephen Siller, recalled his brother’s actions on September 11. “Twenty-five years ago, my brother Stephen strapped on 60 pounds of gear and ran through the Brooklyn Battery Tunnel toward danger, duty, and the people who needed him inside those towers,” he said.

Tunnel to Towers Foundation honors Stephen Siller’s legacy by providing mortgage-free homes to Gold Star families and first responders. Additionally, the organization constructs smart homes for injured veterans and first responders, addressing veteran homelessness.

Col. Dan Steuwe of the U.S. Army shared an image carried by soldiers in his unit after 9/11, showing a fireman passing the American flag to a military member amid the World Trade Center rubble. He described this as a symbol of unity between first responders and military personnel “serving something greater than ourselves and protecting this country.”

Attendees of the event, including corporate sponsor Kelly Heffner, found emotional significance in the beam. Heffner remarked that touching it brought back memories, reinforcing a commitment to never forget.

The artifact arrives at West Point nearly 25 years after the attacks that led to worldwide military engagements during the war on terror. Bartholomees joined Siller in accepting a commemorative steel flag bearing the New York City skyline and Twin Towers. This symbol of gratitude from Tunnel to Towers recognizes dedication to the foundation’s mission.

After the program, attendees were invited to approach the beam for personal reflection. The tour is set to continue at the Fallen Heroes Memorial in Boston.