COLUMBIA, S.C. —
Thousands of people ran through downtown Columbia on Friday for a good cause. The Tunnel to Towers Foundation held a 5K run and walk to honor those who lost their lives on Sept. 11.
“This is something we started back in 2013. We've done it every year," said David Kerr, vice chairman of Remembrance Foundation of South Carolina. "We missed one year due to COVID, and it’s something that has grown year after year. We have our largest attendance this year.”
The Tunnel to Towers Foundation was born from the tragedy of 9/11.
The foundation builds smart homes for injured veterans and first responders and hosts Tunnel to Towers events nationwide.
Organizers say the Columbia event is the second largest Tunnel to Towers event behind New York City, with around 2,300 people participating.
People enjoyed guest speakers, entertainment, and food trucks.
The 5K started on Lincoln Street, ran through West Columbia, Cayce, and ended on Lincoln Street. People from across the state came to show their support.
“I am an Air Force veteran, nine years. I just wanted to show my support to my other fallen brothers and sisters and those who lost their lives in 9/11,” Keri Thomas-Shands said.
“We want to remember 9/11 and all the heroes did to help the citizens of America. We want to make sure we never forget,” the Taylor family said.
“We’re very honored to sponsor this event and pay tribute to Stephen Siller, our first responders, our military members, our veterans, and show our appreciation for what they do,” Kirk Jenkins with Lexington Medical Center said.
“Being able to give back and have the community behinds us participate, honoring our heroes is just exceptional, and gives us a great feeling every year,” Kerr said.