TROY, Ala. (TROJANVISION) — Students and several members of the Troy community gathered at Veterans Memorial Stadium to participate in the annual 9/11 stair climb.

Thursday morning, members of the Troy community gathered at Veterans Memorial Stadium to remember the events of the September 11 terrorist attacks.

“Climbing the forty stairs, you’re legs hurt, you’re in pain, you’re wanting to stop but, it’s because of the greater cause,” said event coordinator Taylor Legnetto. “I’m doing this because of those who lost their lives.”

Troy University Chancellor Jack Hawkins shared what he hopes students gained from this tradition.

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“I hope that the young people who do represent our future and particularly those wonderful students that are participating in this event will carry from this day a reminder of the price that each one of us should be willing to pay.”

One current service member said he appreciates the patriotism he has seen in places like Troy.

“No surprise to me that Troy, Troy University and Troy, Alabama is this patriotism,” said Lt.Col Kedem Alon. “I feel no shame walking around in my uniform.”

Members of Troy University’s AFROTC program plans to continue this annual tradition for many years to come. This was the fifth year Troy University has held the 9/11 climb.