9/11 Steel Beam Reaches Cincinnati as Part of National Memorial Tour

A significant artifact from the World Trade Center’s South Tower, weighing nearly 17,000 pounds, has traveled to Cincinnati. This piece offers individuals far from Ground Zero a unique opportunity to connect with 9/11 history.

“Never forgetting the sacrifice and bravery of our nation’s heroes, as well as our lost loved ones, is a generational promise that every American can help keep,” said Tunnel to Towers Foundation Chairman and CEO Frank Siller.

The 21-foot steel beam continues its journey across the United States as part of the Tunnel to Towers’ Steel Across America tour. This traveling memorial marks the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks. Former Marine infantryman Scott Nokes, a Tunnel to Towers ambassador, participated with local firefighters, FDNY members, veterans, first responders, and community members in escorting the beam to the Cincinnati Fire Museum.

Nokes spoke at the event, sharing his personal connection with the foundation, “I know firsthand what it means to have the Tunnel to Towers Foundation show up for you when you need it most. This foundation changes lives. It changed mine. When I stand before this steel and think about the men and women we lost on September 11, I feel an obligation to make sure their story keeps being told. I am honored to be here today as part of this journey.”

Nokes, originally from New Jersey and a veteran of two deployments to Afghanistan, later pursued a career in firefighting. In 2016, he faced severe health challenges, resulting in double below-the-knee amputations and legal blindness. Through Tunnel to Towers’ Smart Home Program, he received a custom, mortgage-free smart home in December 2019. This home enabled greater independence. In addition to his work, Nokes mentors others in Neptune Emergency Services.

The event in Cincinnati allowed community members, first responders, and residents to witness the artifact during a ceremony. The program included a color guard, bagpipes, national anthem, blessing of the beam, moment of silence, speeches from fire and city leaders, and a steel flag presentation.

As a mobile tribute to 9/11 victims and first responders, the steel beam serves as a poignant memorial. The tour will reach its final destinations, including West Point, Boston, and the White House, before returning to New York City.

The Tunnel to Towers Foundation commits to building mortgage-free, accessible homes for severely injured U.S. veterans and first responders. In memory of the 343 FDNY firefighters who died on 9/11, the foundation aims to deliver 343 mortgage-free homes this year.