Although the 3rd Annual September 11th Stair Climb hosted by Palm Bay Fire Rescue was canceled due to inclement weather, the spirit of the event was far from dampened. On that rainy day, a dedicated group of current and retired members of Palm Bay Fire Rescue, joined by firefighters from neighboring communities, gathered to pay tribute to their fallen brothers and sisters.







Leading the quiet, solemn walk was Tom “Bull” Hill, a figure well-known in the firefighting community for his commitment to honoring those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. As the group marched in the rain, each step resonated with deep respect and remembrance for the 343 firefighters who perished on September 11, 2001, and all those who have lost their lives in the line of duty since then.
The rain-soaked walk was more than just a symbolic gesture; it was a powerful reminder of the resilience and dedication of the firefighting community. The challenges faced by firefighters are often grueling, unpredictable, and relentless—qualities mirrored by the unyielding weather that day. Yet, despite the elements, the firefighters’ resolve to honor their fallen comrades never wavered.





