Mepham High School students, staff, student-athletes, district teams, and members of the Bellmore and North Bellmore Fire Departments came together Thursday, Sept. 17, for the school's Fifth Annual Manuel Mojica Stairway Climb, honoring the memory of FDNY Firefighter Manuel Mojica, a North Bellmore resident and 9/11 hero. 

Just under 700 participants took part, raising $700 for the Tunnel to Towers Foundation.  

“Walking together as a school community serves as a powerful symbol of our shared promise to never forget,” stated Principal Anthony DeMartinis. 

The Mojica family was on hand for the annual event, which honors Firefighter Mojica and commemorates the lives lost on September 11, 2001. His children, Stephanie ('11) and Manny ('14), are Mepham High School graduates. 

During the Stair Climb, participants walked 2,977 steps through Mepham’s hallways and stairwells, representing the 2,977 lives lost on September 11, 2001. 

“As you walk the route, you will see the names of all 2,977 victims lining our stairways. Each name was thoughtfully hung by our Participation in Government and School and Community Leadership students as a constant, powerful reminder of those we honor,” said Kerry Dennis, event co-organizer and social studies teacher. 

The tradition was first created by the Mepham Class of 2023 and was inspired by the annual Tunnel to Towers Climb at One World Trade Center in Lower Manhattan, where participants climb 104 stories in a display of strength, hope, and American resiliency. 

As part of this year’s ceremony, Mepham High School also formally dedicated its Senior Staircase as the Remembrance Staircase, creating a permanent tribute to the 28 Bellmore-Merrick residents who lost their lives on September 11, 2001. 

“In solemn honor of the 28 Bellmore-Merrick residents who lost their lives on September 11, 2001, we officially dedicate our Senior Staircase as the Remembrance Staircase,” added Dennis. “As future generations of Pirates walk these halls and climb these steps, this dedication stands as a permanent tribute to our community’s lost heroes, their families, and the enduring resilience of the American spirit.” 

“Their sacrifice, bravery, and memory are woven into the very heart of Mepham; they will never be forgotten,” added Chris Patten, event co-organizer and social studies teacher. 

Funds raised through the Stairway Climb will benefit the Tunnel to Towers Foundation as part of Mepham’s fall Senior Service Learning Project. 

;