Firefighters Reflect on Creation of NYC Stair Climb

Firefighters Chris Barber and John Mills, both located on Manhattan’s Upper West Side, are the founders of the New York City Firefighter Stair Climb, a newly created annual event held for the first time on March 16, 2015. Read more about the event on our blog.

In a joint statement to the 9/11 Memorial Museum, Barber and Mills reflect on the launch of the event:

“The event gave firefighters a chance to unite as one while remembering their fallen comrades, not only from 9/11 but also from fire, police and military units worldwide. An element of fun was added as well: Climbers challenged each other to raise money for two important charities, Hope for the Warriors and Friends of Firefighters. The climb was also timed for those who wanted to race in competitive spirit.  

We were inspired to host the inaugural New York City Firefighter Stair Climb after being privileged to take part in a 9/11 memorial climb in Auckland, New Zealand this past September. To witness a country on the complete opposite side of the world host their sixth annual 9/11 memorial climb and ceremony was truly awe inspiring. It really opened our eyes to the ‘brotherhood’ worldwide as we learned of the widespread importance of these climbs.

Memorial climbs are taking place all over the United States and in other parts of the world. Reflecting on our experience, we knew that we had a unique opportunity and responsibility to host a memorial climb here in New York City where the tragedy of 9/11 occurred. With the help and cooperation of many invaluable resources, we are humbled to have had the opportunity to host the first annual New York City Firefighter Stair Climb.”

Chris Barber is assigned to Ladder 22. He moved to New York City just months before 9/11 and previously served as a firefighter in Alabama.

John Mills is assigned to Ladder 25. He lost his father, Charles Mills, in the South Tower on 9/11.