Cadets at Texas State University honored the victims of the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks by climbing 2,090 steps – equivalent to the World Trade Center floors.
SAN MARCOS, Texas — People across the nation are remembering those who lost their lives on Sept. 11, 2001. At Texas State University, cadets in uniform paid tribute in their own way.
The university’s Army and Air Force Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) conducted its second annual 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb on Thursday, honoring the victims of the attacks.
Cadets climbed a total of 2,090 steps, the equivalent of the 110 floors of the World Trade Center. The cadets filled each section of UFCU stadium, carrying flags and cheering each other on as they climbed. The event was a joint tribute organized by both ROTC programs.
Texas State University President Kelly Damphousse also joined the cadets in their climb.
The event was started last year by Cadet Rodriguez, who said he created the tradition to boost morale and unity within the ROTC community, while also honoring the lives lost on 9/11.
“It’s a reminder of why we joined and why we fight,” Rodriguez said.