Many Americans vividly remember where they were when the first tower in New York City was struck by a plane on September 11, 2001. It was a day that continues to have a profound impact on our nation.
Each year, Charles D. Owen High School honors those who tragically lost their lives. School Resource Officer (SRO) Matthew Owenby organizes the event known as Stampede the Stairs. Students, staff and community members come together in the early morning hours on 9/11 climb the stairs of the Warhorse football stadium. It’s just a small tribute to remember the lives lost on that day.
“Our highschoolers were not alive yet when 9/11 happened 22 years ago,” said Deputy Owenby. “It’s a great way to remind everyone of why I do my job, why the military and firefighters do their jobs as well. Those who participate get a sense of purpose and a small piece of the history of the events.”
On 9/11, first responders climbed 110 flights of stairs before the towers collapsed. Participants of Stampede the Stairs climbed the same number of flights. Firefighters with the Asheville Fire Department and Black Mountain Fire Department did so in full gear to symbolize the magnitude that each first responder endured.
“Each group that climbed the stadium stairs carried a section of a decommissioned fire hose,” said JROTC instructor Brook King. “SRO Owenby took the time to write the name of every first responder who lost their life 22 years ago on the baton. The teams carried those people with them today as they climbed the stairs.”
