Madison firefighters observe 9/11 ‘climb’ in Nashville

MADISON – Four Madison firefighters completed a strenuous drill in Nashville to remember colleagues who died during terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2001.

Ryan Gentry, Josh Bradley, Jason Tidwell and Jonathan Chapman climbed 110 stories to honor New York firefighters who responded to terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2001. (CONTRIBUTED)

“As it is for everyone, 9/11 carries a special significance to the fire service,” Capt. Russ Kennington said. “That day, 343 of our brothers died.”

“In remembrance of these brave men who gave their lives so that others may live, the Nashville 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb is held each year,” Kennington said.

Madison firefighter Ryan Gentry, driver/engineer Josh Bradley, Capt. Jason Tidwell and firefighter Jonathan Chapman climbed 110 stories on Sept. 8 in full gear to recognize the firefighters who performed this task on 9/11.

The National Fallen Firefighters Association sponsors the Nashville stair climb. “This event, along with numerous others across the nation, recognizes the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice when they responded to the terrorist attack on the World Trade Center,” Kennington said.

Only 343 people can participate in the climb. Each person is assigned with a nametag and photograph of a firefighter who died on 9/11. The climb is held at the William R. Snodgrass Tennessee Tower in downtown Nashville. The Madison team completed the climb in approximately two hours.

“Each firefighter ascended the stairs four times, representing the 110 floors of the Twin Towers,” Kennington said. The firefighters wore full gear, consisting of structural firefighting boots, turnout coats and pants, helmet and air pack. The gear added 50 to 60 extra pounds.

In June, Bradley organized Madison’s participation. “To some people, ‘Never Forget’ is just a slogan. To us, it is a commitment,” Bradley said. “I take great pride in being a part of a profession that always places others in front of self.”

The Madison firefighters were proud of their accomplishment. “I (went to Nashville) to represent the men and women who died that day but, after interacting with the firefighters, there’s no doubt the bravery of that day still exists in the fire service,” Tidwell said.