343 - A number I can never forget.September 9, 2016 | Karen LaukkonenFifteen years ago, I worked on the Pierce Manufacturing account, builder of custom firefighting vehicle. On September 11th, 2001, I was designing Pierce's yearly calendar featuring big fire truck photos and rugged firefighters.And then planes hit the World Trade Center and the Pentagon. After the initial shock, we realized it was those firemen at risk-they ran into burning buildings, and put their life on the line to save so many that day. It put a very personal face on an already emotional day. To honor their sacrifice, we quickly revised the calendar to be a tribute to the firefighters who died that day. I re-designed one page, individually listing each one of those 343 names.This year Pierce holds their 4th Annual 9/11 Memorial Stair climb., part of Pierce's legacy to give back to the fire industry. Held at Lambeau Field, all proceeds go to the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation to support the victim's families from 9/11.I may not be climbing, but I will never forget.- Much adieu, Karen
