Boston residents gathered at Fenway Park Wednesday night for a moving tribute to the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks. The Tunnel to Towers “Steel Across America” tour brought a 21‑foot, 16,900‑pound steel beam salvaged from the South Tower of the World Trade Center to the historic ballpark, allowing Red Sox fans and nearby families to see a tangible piece of history.
Local voices remember the day
Fenway vendor David Littlefield described the experience as “gut‑wrenching” and said the steel “gives me chills.” He added that his wife lost a roommate in the attacks, underscoring how the display hits home for many in the community. Another attendee, a former American Airlines employee who flew the routes of Flight 11 and Flight 77, echoed the sentiment, calling the moment “heartbreaking” and a reminder of the lives forever changed.
From West Point to the nation’s capital
Earlier this week the beam visited the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, where Superintendent Lt. Gen. James B. Bartholomees III linked the steel’s symbolism to the courage of first responders and the generations of West Point graduates who have answered the call to serve. “Today, young men and women continue that legacy of service, guided by duty, honor, country,” he said.
After Boston, the beam will travel to Washington, D.C., for a private event on Friday, then head to Brooklyn for a September 11 ceremony before making a final appearance at the New York Giants‑Dallas Cowboys game at MetLife Stadium on September 13.
Community ceremony at the Fallen Heroes Memorial
Following the Fenway display, the steel was moved to the Massachusetts Fallen Heroes Memorial on Thursday, where a solemn program featured a color guard, pipe and drum procession by members of the NYPD, FDNY, and Port Authority Police Department, as well as an invocation, a blessing of the steel, and a rendition of “Amazing Grace.” The ceremony highlighted the enduring bond between first‑responders of 2001 and the everyday heroes who continue to protect the nation.
Boston’s participation in the tour reflects the city’s deep respect for the sacrifices made on September 11 and its commitment to honoring those who served. As families and veterans gathered, the steel beam served as a powerful reminder that the spirit of service and sacrifice remains alive in the heart of New England.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
