The Tunnels to Towers 5K run and walk honored fallen heroes In New York throughout the day.

During the annual event, participants retrace the final footsteps of Stephen Siller, an FDNY firefighter who lost his life saving others during the September 11 terror attacks.

Proceeds from the event support programs for first responders and injured service members.

News 12’s Antionette Biordi spoke to one participant, U.S. Army veteran Chris Levi, about the run.

“It's a tough event, but it's something and I look forward to it because all the people who will be there and what it represents,” he said.

In March 2008, Levi lost both of his legs when a pipe bomb blew up near his Humvee in Iraq.

He says his determination never wavered, and now with his new prosthetic electronic legs, he hopes to inspire others.

“This year is really a show support to show strength for the foundation. I think it's really special,” he said.

For many, the most emotional part of the race is when they reach the end of the tunnel. This is where images of the 343 fallen firefighters can be seen.

To Levi and the other runners, this is a somber reminder of the people that have been lost while protecting and defending their country.