The FDNY Fire Family Transport Foundation sponsored the IRON and STEEL-New York City to Fort Benning Run. On 12 September 2009, the IRON and STEEL Team left Brooklyn, NY to escort a section of the World Trade Center from New York City to the National Infantry Museum at Fort Benning, Georgia, where it will be permanently installed near a statue of Rick Rescorla, a Seventh Calvary veteran, who as Safety Director of Morgan Stanley led many to safety before he was killed on 9/11. The steel was unveiled at an emotional ceremony on 17 September, where we were told that the Steel would be situated so it will be a touchstone at future Fort Benning graduation ceremonies.

This 4 day MOTORCYCLE ONLY event was RAIN or Shine and, yes, it rained and shined. For over 1,000 miles, we were greeted by American flags, Fire apparatus and thousands of people displaying their patriotism. All in all, it was as American as Sweet Apple Pie.

This event which benefitted The FDNY Fire Family Transport Foundation, as well as The Wounded Warrior Project, safely took place due to the hard work of a myriad of volunteers led by Greg “Spock” Alspach USN (vet), the IRON and STEEL Run Director, and Lead Run Coordinator for the Gray Team and   Msgt Mike “Bearman” Angelastro USAF (ret), the IRON and STEEL Lead Run Coordinator for the Blue Team.  Thanks to them, the FDNY Fire Riders and all who participated for making this a truly historic journey.

Although a Driving Rain began the day for the 2009 Stephen Tunnel to Towers Run, it did not dissuade the throngs of 20,000+ individuals from following in Stephen’s Footsteps.

Engine 343 was repositioned this year for the event but was unable to get near it’s new location and was temporarily parked under cover for the rest of the day.

Many persons passed 343 on the way to the staging area and admired its purpose and our mission.