Frank Siller’s Journey of Honor and Remembrance

On September 11, 2001, life changed forever for Frank Siller. The tragic events of that day stole his younger brother, Stephen Siller, a firefighter at Ground Zero.

Frank’s desperate attempts to reach Stephen on their shared Nextel phone went unanswered. He clung to hope that his brother had crossed the Verrazzano Bridge back to Staten Island. The eerie silence confirmed his worst fears.

As family members gathered at Frank’s home, they faced the grim reality together. Among them, firefighting neighbor Richie Obermeyer called from Ground Zero to convey the devastating news: no one was coming home.

Frank’s daughter Elizabeth witnessed this heart-wrenching moment, highlighting the personal nature of tragedy. It was a moment that laid bare the harsh truth of the attacks on the World Trade Center, where two hijacked planes tore through the twin towers, creating lasting devastation.

The aftermath for the Siller family was profound. Stephen, leaving behind a wife and five children, was a beacon of strength from a young age. His loss, an emotional abyss, prompted the family to honor his memory by supporting his widow and children.

Stephen’s selflessness on September 11 was a testament to his character. Despite completing his shift, he sacrificed his life to save others. This act shaped the Siller family’s future, inspiring them to create the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, dedicated to assisting heroes and their families.

Guided by the philosophy of Saint Francis of Assisi, the foundation embodies Stephen’s legacy of living fully and doing good. When asked why they continue this mission, Frank recalls a quote attributed to Saint Francis, “A single sunbeam is enough to drive away many shadows.” For the Siller family, Stephen’s memory is that sunbeam.

The Tunnel to Towers Foundation honors Stephen’s sacrifice and those lost on 9/11. It encourages others to support American heroes, their ultimate mission rooted in selfless service and compassion.

For more insights into Frank Siller’s journey, visit T2T.org or explore his book, “Let Us Do Good.”