GOODFELLOW AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- Firefighters climbed five stories carrying 42-pound packs, advanced hose lines and dragged a 185-pound mannequin as part of the 14th annual Blood, Sweat and Stairs event, Sept. 12.
Hosted by the 312th Training Squadron at the Louis F. Garland Department of War Fire Academy, the event honored the first responders who answered the call during the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks while challenging participants through a memorial run and firefighter combat challenge.
The event began with the 5K Memorial Run, giving participants an opportunity to remember those who lost their lives during the response to the attacks. Following the run, teams gathered for the firefighter combat challenge, a series of physically demanding events designed to test strength, endurance and teamwork.
“Yesterday, we remembered 9/11 through a bunch of different activities, through a ceremony,” said Lt. Col. Benjamin Shearer, 312th TRS commander. “This morning we continue to remember 9/11, just with a little bit of a different flavor.”
The combat challenge began with a high-rise climb. The first competitor carried a 42-pound high-rise pack to the top of the academy's five-story Soldiers/Sailors, Airmen and Marines Tower before tagging the next teammate.
Teams then progressed through additional events that included hoisting equipment, a Keiser force machine, navigating a 100-foot serpentine course and advancing a hose line to engage a target and a mannequin drag.
While the event tested competitors physically, its purpose extended beyond the competition. Blood, Sweat and Stairs connected remembrance with the demands of the firefighting profession, highlighting the preparation, physical readiness and teamwork required of those who respond when others need help.
The event brought together firefighters, commanders, senior leaders, first sergeants and members of the Goodfellow community to support the competitors and recognize the significance of the day.
Twenty-five years after the 9/11 terrorist attacks, the event provided another opportunity for the Goodfellow community to honor the first responders who demonstrated courage and commitment in the face of unimaginable danger.
