TEMPE, Ariz. — Local firefighters and first responders gathered at Mountain America Stadium in Tempe on Thursday morning to honor the lives lost during the 9/11 rescue efforts by climbing 2,200 steps — a symbolic tribute to the 110 floors first responders climbed inside the Twin Towers 24 years ago.

"We might get sore, we might be a little tired, but just thankful that we can be tired while doing this, that we have the opportunity, we're physically able, and we know we're just getting better for the job,” said Phoenix firefighter Traejun Foard, who joined about a dozen other first responders in their turnouts or PT gear as they walked up and down the stadium stairs.

For Foard, the event was about more than remembrance.

"There can be a sacrifice with the job, and so we want to make sure

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