Get Ready For The 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb In Casper

24 years... That's how long it's been since, as Alan Jackson would say, the world stopped turning.

September 11th.

When you stop and think about everything that's happened since 9/11/01, it's insane. We're still feeling the effects of the attacks in New York City, Washington DC, and Pennsylvania.

It's only been a couple of years since we pulled out of Afghanistan, ending the longest war, which started as a direct result of September 11. The way we think, travel, and the speed at which we get news have all changed in those 24 years.

For the next few days, you'll be reminded of the events before, during, and the days and weeks after the attacks by overhearing conversations, news reports, TV shows, and movies, along with many tributes which will occur in cities all across the world.

Casper has always shown up to show support during the 9/11 Stair Climb at the Ford Wyoming Center, and this year is no different. Natrona County First Responders will lead the charge again this year.

The morning begins bright and early, with doors opening and registration starting at 6 a.m. The opening ceremony will begin at 6:45 with opening comments from Casper Fire Chief Jacob C.J. Black, then the stair climbing begins.

The mission is to climb stairs equivalent to the 110 stories or 2,200 steps of the World Trade Center in honor of the 2,977 lives lost in the attacks. There were 343 firefighters and paramedics, 23 NYC PD, and 37 Port Authority Officers who died at the Twin Towers that day.

If you'd like to be a part of the 9/11 Stair Climb, it's open and free to the public. You can climb the stairs anytime between 6 a.m. and 1 p.m. For those who want to participate but have issues with climbing stairs, you can walk the arena floor instead.

Wear comfortable shoes and clothing, and get ready to climb on September 11.