In memory of the 9/11 attacks on September 11, 2001, various student organizations across campus paid homage to their nation’s fallen heroes and victims on Sunday, which marked the 15th anniversary of the massacre.

Beginning at 8:46am on Sunday, ten student midshipmen in Rensselaer’s unit of the Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps reenacted the climb made by firefighters up the stairs of the World Trade Center by running up and down the Approach _ times, traveling up a total of 2,076 steps. Two full-sized American flags made the journey as well, cycling between the hands of the midshipmen throughout the morning.

“I can’t imagine how difficult it must have been to do it with 75+ pounds of equipment,” said freshman Dalton Wessels. “Really puts into perspective the courage all of the men and women [had] that helped save the lives of thousands.”

The annual September 11 Memorial Blood Drive, cohosted by the Interfraternity Council and the Panhellenic Council, brought in many patrons to the Mueller center from 9 am to 3 pm on Sunday. Donors received a five dollar credit for amazon.com from the American Red Cross in gratitude for giving blood.

Later in the day, RPI’s three ROTC units, including the Army, Air Force, and Navy units, conducted a flag watch at the flagpole out front of the Armory, reverently guarding the flag.

This Saturday at 9 am, Air Force ROTC Detachment 550 is putting on their 21st annual Run to Remember, a 5000 meter race at East Campus Athletic Village. All proceeds from race registration benefit the Wounded Warrior Project.