9/11 Memorial Tribute Challenge and Concert: Honoring Heroes, Embracing Community
This Saturday, Sept. 7, the Kokomo community will come together to honor the first responders and victims of the September 11th attacks during the 9/11 Memorial Tribute Challenge at the Kokomo Municipal Stadium. From 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., the event will pay tribute through physical challenges, remembrance, and powerful music, offering a day of unity and reflection.
“It’s just an awesome opportunity for us to remember what happened that day,” said Jason Braden, event organizer and Captain of Engine One at the Kokomo Fire Deptment.
Braden said he knows many who are in fire service today got into the career path after Sept. 11, and it remains important to remember the sacrifices that day.
“I know it’s something that means a lot to me to carry on to make sure the younger generation of firefighters that are coming know and understand the men and woman that sacrificed everything that day,” Braden said.
The event kicks off with a stair climb in memory of the Sept. 11, 2001, heroes, symbolic of the 110 flights of stairs first responders climbed in the World Trade Center. While registration for the stair climb, sponsored by One More Gym and Planet Fitness, is already full, there are plenty of other ways for the community to get involved.
Runners and walkers of all skill levels can participate in a 5K run/walk, offering an opportunity to physically challenge themselves while honoring the fallen. In addition, CrossFit Kokomo is hosting a Hero Workout of the Day (WOD), designed to push participants to their limits in honor of the sacrifice made by the heroes of that day.
A memorial service will take place to reflect on the events of September 11, 2001, and honor the lives lost. Following the service, attendees can enjoy delicious food from local favorites like Hawg Heaven food truck and Andy’s Pizza, bringing a comforting, hometown touch to the day.
To cap off the evening, the famous Mike Milligan and Steam Shovel will take the stage, delivering their soulful, blues-infused rock to the Kokomo Riverwalk Concert Pavilion. The band, which celebrates 30 years of touring and recording, will provide the perfect soundtrack for a day dedicated to resilience, remembrance, and community.
Braden said this event is an incredible opportunity to come together as a community to remember, reflect and honor. Whether you're running, climbing, working out or simply attending in support, every contribution helps ensure that the legacy of 9/11 and the bravery of those who responded will never be forgotten.
With such a meaningful lineup of activities, this is a powerful chance to connect with others, honor our local and national heroes and make a lasting impact through proceeds being divided equally among three local foundations: the Marty Meyers Scholarship Foundation (Kokomo Fire Department), the Carl Koontz Scholarship Foundation (Howard County Sheriff's Department), and the FOP Scholarship Foundation (Kokomo Police Department).
For full event details and to sign up for the 5K or Hero WOD, visit https://runsignup.com/Race/Events/IN/Kokomo/911MartyMeyersandCarlKoontz#event-837637
Note: The T-shirt deadline has passed, use code HERO for a discount of $15 (The cost of the t-shirt) at checkout.
Schedule of Events:
8:40 a.m. Bell-ringing Ceremony
8:46 a.m. Stairclimb (Registration is full) at 400 S. Union St., Kokomo
8:46 a.m. CrossFit Workout-of-the-Day (adaptable to your ability, 3 sessions throughout the day) at 400 S. Union St., Kokomo
9:03 a.m. 5K Run/Walk begins at Kokomo Municipal Stadium at 400 S. Union St., Kokomo
10:50 a.m. Opening Ceremony (Put in the middle of all of the events so more people can attend)
5 to 7 p.m. Concert at the Riverwalk Pavilion with Mike Milligan and Steam Shovel - Pizza by the slice for sale from Andy's Pizza! 100 S. Union St., Kokomo.