Dozens Climb Stairs At M&T Bank Stadium To Remember Fallen Firefighters

BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- Climbing for a cause. The Memorial Stair Climb is an event to remember those brave firefighters who lost their lives in the line of duty.

Tracey Leong has the story.

More than 200 firefighters, their family members and supporters filled the M&T Bank Stadium to honor America's fallen heroes.

Paying tribute to every brave firefighter who selflessly gave their lives in the line duty.

"It just makes my heart feel great, and hearts of all firefighters throughout the country feel great to know we are still supporting those who have gone on," said Captain Roman Clark, Baltimore City Fire Department.

Participants climbed 110 steps at M&T Bank Stadium--representing the stairs of the World Trade Center in memory of the 343 firefighters killed on Sept. 11.

"Think about the sacrifices our brothers went through on Sept. 11 and all the others who've died since and before and it's easy to go," said Lt. Jason Smith, Montgomery County Fire Department.

The event also benefits the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, which supports families of fallen heroes across America.

"Unfortunately, there will be always be firefighter deaths, as much as we don't want that to be a reality, so it's important to continue to raise money," said Jane Neville, mother of fallen hero.

Jane and Dennis lost their son, Brian Neville, in 2008. He was with the Baltimore County Fire Department.

"Do what we know he would want us to do, and that is to help other families going through the same thing," Dennis Neville said. "And we'd like to hope we don't have any to help, but the reality is what it is."

Recognizing the sacrifices these courageous men and women make each day, who always put their country's needs ahead of their own.

"It is a big brotherhood. That's what makes doing our job doable--knowing our brothers and sisters in the fire department will help us out and put their lives on the line like we will for them," said Lt. Smith.

This is the sixth annual Sept. 11 Memorial Stair Climb the Baltimore City Fire Department has hosted, but it's the first time it was held inside the M&T Bank Stadium.

To find a Memorial Stair Climb near you, CLICK HERE.