07/17/2026
Always remember, never forget. Treasure Island Fire Rescue (TIFR) will once again honor the lives lost on September 11, 2001, with its annual Memorial Walk. Each year, TIFR reflects on the sacrifice of the 343 firefighters who died responding to the World Trade Center attacks, along with all victims of that tragic day. This year’s walk marks the 25th anniversary of 9/11 and is expected to be the department’s largest commemoration to date.
“What began with just five on-duty firefighters walking to honor the 343 brothers we lost on September 11, 2001, has grown into a city-wide tradition of remembrance,” Treasure Island Fire Rescue Lieutenant Steven Rowland said. “Our goal has always been simple: to ensure TIFR members never forget the courage, sacrifice, and legacy of those heroes. We walk to honor. We walk to remember.”
The Memorial Walk covers 3.43 miles, symbolizing the 343 fallen firefighters. Participants will begin at the Freedom Boat Club, 12765 Kingfish Drive, and finish at the Heron Parking Lot on Sunset Beach, 7545 Bayshore Drive. The walk starts at 8:46 a.m., the moment the North Tower was struck. Community members of all ages are encouraged to participate and show support on the 9/11 anniversary. The route runs along Gulf Boulevard, with refreshments and snacks available to participants along the way.
Free parking will be available at all Sunset Beach lots and at City Hall. A shuttle will run throughout the morning, providing transportation to the starting point before the event and back to parking areas after the walk.
Following the walk, participants are invited to gather for a Post Memorial Walk Event at Treasure Island Caddy’s, 9000 West Gulf Boulevard. Members of TIFR, city staff, partner organizations, and participants can come together for a meal, a drink, or simply to continue honoring those lost on September 11, 2001.
To register for the walk and order a commemorative T-shirt and coin, visit MyTreasureIsland.com.