Over 40 firefighters from five departments climbed the equivalent of 78 stories Saturday at SeatGeek Stadium in Bridgeview, honoring the 343 New York Fire Department firefighters killed in the Sept. 11 terrorist attack on the World Trade Center.
The stairclimb is an annual tradition that has grown significantly. Donations from the event support the 100 Club of Chicago, which provides financial assistance to families of first responders who died in the line of duty.
The event moved to SeatGeek this year after outgrowing its previous location at Swallow Cliffs. In its first year in 2021, six firefighters participated; by 2023, dozens climbed. Bridgeview Battalion Chief Yerkovich and Fire Union Local 4330 spearheaded the search for a larger venue and found the stadium offered ample stairs and space.
“We are beyond blessed to have the stadium and cannot wait to watch the seeds we have planted together grow, so that future generations will know what the purpose of life truly is, and that is to serve your fellow man,” Yerkovich said.
Heavy rains fell overnight, but the 9 a.m. start began under cloudy skies. According to Battalion Chief Yerkovich, the weather likely suppressed turnout, but firefighters and community members from multiple departments showed up anyway.
“We established a beautiful footprint all because of the department’s Local 4330 firefighters and village officials coming together,” Yerkovich said. “It’s a very appropriate venue for honoring the victims.”
Bridgeview Fire Chief Keith Grzadziel said the stairclimb is an annual tradition to remember those lost. Plans are already underway for the seventh annual climb at SeatGeek next September.