NEW YORK, N.Y. (Sept. 28, 2015) - On Sunday, the LIU Post men's basketball, men's lacrosse and volleyball teams all volunteered their time at the Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers 5K Run and Walk in New York City.

The event follows the path that New York City firefighter Stephen Siller took to reach the World Trade Center on Sept. 11, 2001. Siller strapped 60 pounds of gear to his back, rushed on foot through gridlocked traffic and ran from the Brooklyn Battery Tunnel to the Twin Towers, where he gave up his life to save others on the tragic events of that day.

The Pioneers assisted at the race by setting up and working the finish line.

"It was a great experience for all involved," said Head Men's Lacrosse Coach John Jez. "The story of how the event came to be is very inspiring. It helps everyone to remember the great sacrifice many gave on this unfortunate day. It was also emotional to see the wounded warriors complete the course and watch individuals run in memory of loved ones lost."

"To volunteer at the Tunnel to Towers event was such a gratifying experience for our student-athletes. It is something they will always remember," Head Men's Basketball Coach Erik Smiles stated. "It was a great opportunity for our student-athletes to, not only learn about the heroic actions of Stephen Siller, but also hear about the stories and history behind that tragic day. And, to be able to visit the reflecting pools and Freedom Tower at the World Trade Center in person, it was a very emotional and memorable moment for our student-athletes."

The goal of the Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers Foundation is to continue Stephen's legacy by supporting our nation's first responders and service members. Building for America's Bravest, a program of the Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers Foundation, constructs specially adapted smart homes for our most catastrophically-injured service members.

For more information on Stephen Siller and the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, please visit Tunnel2Towers.org.