AU hosting Flights of Honor: 9/11 Remembrance Challenge

Published on Aug. 12, 2026

Ashland University

ASHLAND, Ohio – Twenty-five years after the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, Ashland University will honor the first responders, service members and all heroes of that day who answered an extraordinary call by hosting the Flights of Honor: 9/11 Remembrance Challenge on Wednesday, Sept. 9, at Jack Miller Stadium (800 Broad St., Ashland).

AU’s Military Family and Veteran Services department is coordinating the event, which is free and open to the community. Participants will attempt to climb 110 flights of stairs—the number of stories of the World Trade Center’s Twin Towers—to honor the 2,977 lives lost, recognize the courage of the first responders and reflect on the resilience and unity of our nation.

The Flights of Honor is designed as a tribute rather than a competition, bringing together those who want to show their support for firefighters, law enforcement officers, EMS personnel, military members and veterans.

“Whether you wear a badge, carry a radio, have served in uniform or continue supporting those who do, we would be honored to have you participate,” said Mason Feeman, assistant director of Military Family and Veteran Services. “We encourage agencies, departments, posts and gyms to register together, wear your organization apparel, or participate with friends, classmates, coworkers, family or individually, and climb side by side in remembrance.”

Check-in is at 8:30 a.m., with a welcome and opening remarks at 9 a.m. The climb begins at 9:15 a.m., will include a moment of reflection at 10:45 a.m., and concludes around noon.

The first 50 to register will received a commemorative T-shirt. Food from Rust Belt Long Bread Co. will be provided following the challenge for registered participants. Registration information can be found at this link.

While there is no cost to participate, donations are welcome to offset food and hydration costs as well as to help support initiatives for local military and first responders. For more information, email veterans@ashland.edu or call 419-289-5352.