On Wednesday, the community of Corpus Christi came together to remember and honor the victims and survivors of 9-11 in a powerful display of unity and resilience. Dozens of emergency responders, residents, and participants from Corpus Christi Hooks and LyondellBasell gathered at Whataburger Field for the fifth annual memorial workout. This annual event pays tribute to the brave individuals who died on that tragic day in American history.
A Memorial Workout Inspired by Heroes
The memorial workout serves as a tribute to the first responders who faced overwhelming challenges during the 9-11 attacks. The participants, including U.S. Coast Guard servicemen and women, firefighters, and community members, took to the stadium bleachers to tackle more than 110 flights of stairs. This physically demanding task mirrors the incredible challenge first responders faced while climbing the stairs of the burning World Trade Center in 2001.
Reflecting on the event’s significance, U.S. Coast Guard serviceman Scott Ruskin shared, “We’re just here to support those who are no longer here and try to remember the sacrifice that all those people made.” His words resonated with everyone present, reinforcing the shared sense of remembrance and respect.
Pushing Through with Added Weight
For some, the workout became even more challenging. Corpus Christi Fire Engineer Daniel Poncik took on the added burden of carrying a 30-pound oxygen tank on his back, a nod to the weight carried by first responders during the 9-11 rescue efforts. Poncik explained the emotional and physical significance of the workout, stating, “Just thinking about the men and women that were there that day. This isn’t even a fraction of what they went through.”
All participants felt the emotional weight of the day sincerely as they honored the courage and sacrifice of the heroes who risked their lives to save others.
Moments of Silence and Reflection
Throughout the event, participants were given time to reflect on the gravity of the day. U.S. Navy Selected Reservist Tess Montagna described how the workout stirred deep emotions, saying, “It kind of got emotional a couple of times for me because we did stop three times for a moment of silence for the crashes.” The pauses served as a sad reminder of the lives lost and the devastation caused by the attacks.
For Montagna, the physical challenge was a way to honor the fallen and demonstrate her respect for the extraordinary efforts of the first responders. “It’s about doing something that’s harder, so I wanted to honor them,” she added.
A Community United in Remembrance
The event at Whataburger Field was not just about the workout; rather, it was about coming together as a community to remember and honor the resilience and sacrifice of those lost on 9-11. Throughout the event, participants of all backgrounds and abilities pushed themselves through the demanding workout, fully embodying the spirit of unity that emerged after the attacks.
As the day drew to a close, it became evident that the memory of 9-11 continues to live on through meaningful acts of tribute, such as the annual memorial workout. Ultimately, the event is a powerful reminder of the importance of remembering the past, honoring the heroes, and standing united as a community.