Walton represented at annual Stone Mountain climb

Never forgetting 9-11

Regan Breedlove (Walton County Fire and Rescue), Justin Oakley (WCFR), Tommy Dyer (Loganville Fire), Miguel Jimenez (Roswell Fire), David Parker (Loganville Fire), Alaina Lewis (Loganville Fire) and Michael Hill (Loganville Fire and WCFR) are shown at Wednesday’s Stone Mountain climb honoring 9-11 victims. Christy Breedlove | Special to the Tribune

There is a whole generation that did not experience the terror of September 11, 2001. They were either too young or not even born at all to experience that horrific Tuesday when the Twin Towers fell and so many firefighter, police and paramedic brethren were lost.

To make sure that day is not forgotten, the Stone Mountain Climb was started in 2014 by the Fayetteville Fire Department to honor the fallen heroes. Every 9-11 at 9:03 a.m., dozens of firefighters around the metro Atlanta area hike up the granite mountain in full turnout gear. Full turnout gear consists of a turnout coat, pants, boots and helmet as well as breathing apparatuses.

Walton County Fire Marshall Jonathan Fuqua stated the importance of the time is significant.

“The timing represents the moment the South Tower was struck by a plane. It was that time Americans knew we were under attack by terrorists,” said Fuqua. “This year’s climb was the 10th year of the climb. There were well over 100 participants including firefighters, police and families from all over the state. Stone Mountain Park allowed a free entry to all participants of this event. Walton County Fire Rescue sent participants this year. We are proud of these firefighters that went above and beyond in showing their love for the community, remembrance of the fallen and the job.”

Loganville City Firefighter Alana Lewis is a veteran of the Stone Mountain Climb honoring 9-11..

“I have done the 9-11 climb every year for the past 10 years,” Lewis said. “It doesn’t get easier but I will continue to do it every year to honor our brothers and sisters who died on that tragic day.”

This year’s climb was Walton County firefighter Regan Breedlove’s first.

“It was difficult going up at first but the thought of those who gave the ultimate sacirifice kept me going. I did it because those men and women who died in the towers, Pentagon and Pennsylvania on September 11, 2001 deserve nothing but my best.”