Frank Siller may not be a household celebrity, but his impact on America’s military, first responders, and Gold Star families is nothing short of heroic. As the driving force behind the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, Frank Siller has turned personal tragedy into national triumph—building homes for injured veterans, paying off mortgages for fallen heroes’ families, and ensuring America never forgets the sacrifices made on 9/11 and beyond.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at who Frank Siller is, his family background, the story of Stephen Siller, the founding of Tunnel to Towers, major milestones of the foundation, and the long-term impact of his tireless work. This is your ultimate guide if you’re looking for an authentic account of Frank Siller’s life and contributions.
Who Is Frank Siller?
Frank Siller is the Chairman and CEO of the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, a nonprofit organization established in memory of his younger brother, FDNY firefighter Stephen Siller, who died on September 11, 2001. A native of Staten Island, New York, Frank is one of seven siblings in a tight-knit Catholic family that instilled the values of faith, service, and self-sacrifice.
Before becoming a full-time philanthropist, Frank was a successful businessman in the home furnishing industry. But everything changed for him and his family on that fateful September morning when Stephen, after finishing his shift, ran on foot through the Brooklyn Battery Tunnel with 60 pounds of gear to reach the Twin Towers, where he lost his life trying to save others.
That moment became the cornerstone of Frank Siller’s mission: to ensure Stephen’s sacrifice—and that of every hero like him—is never forgotten.
The Story of Stephen Siller: A Hero Remembered
Stephen Siller was only 34 years old when he died on 9/11. A member of Squad 1 in Brooklyn, he had just finished his shift and was on his way to play golf with his brothers when he heard over his scanner that a plane had hit the World Trade Center. Without hesitation, he returned to the firehouse, gathered his gear, and drove his truck to the Brooklyn Battery Tunnel.
When he found the tunnel closed for security reasons, Stephen strapped on his gear and ran nearly two miles on foot to reach the towers. He was last seen entering the South Tower before it collapsed.
That act of pure bravery and devotion to duty became the inspiration for the Tunnel to Towers Foundation.
Founding the Tunnel to Towers Foundation
Frank Siller and his family established the Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers Foundation in 2002 to honor Stephen’s memory and support the heroes who continue to protect and serve.
Initially launched with a single commemorative 5K run/walk through the same tunnel Stephen ran through, the foundation has since evolved into a multi-million-dollar national charity. The annual Tunnel to Towers 5K in New York City draws tens of thousands of participants from across the country, walking and running the path Stephen took on 9/11.
But the mission quickly expanded beyond remembrance. Frank and his team recognized the ongoing needs of injured veterans, Gold Star families, and first responders, and they stepped in to help.
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What the Tunnel to Towers Foundation Does
Under Frank Siller’s leadership, the Tunnel to Towers Foundation has launched multiple programs with a singular focus: “Do good.” These programs include:
1. Smart Home Program
This initiative builds custom-designed smart homes for catastrophically injured veterans and first responders. These homes are mortgage-free and designed to provide maximum independence through advanced automation, including voice-activated features, adaptive kitchens and bathrooms, and wheelchair-accessible layouts.
2. Fallen First Responder Home Program
The foundation pays off mortgages for families of first responders who lose their lives in the line of duty, ensuring their loved ones can stay in their homes and focus on healing.
3. Gold Star Family Home Program
Gold Star families—those who have lost a loved one in military service—also receive mortgage-free homes or mortgage payoffs, giving them financial stability during unimaginable grief.
4. 9/11 Never Forget Mobile Exhibit and Museum
Frank Siller is adamant about preserving the memory of 9/11. To this end, the foundation created a traveling exhibit and is in the process of constructing a permanent “Never Forget” Education Center near Ground Zero to teach future generations about the heroism of that day.
Notable Achievements Under Frank Siller’s Leadership
Frank Siller’s dedication has transformed the Tunnel to Towers Foundation into a national symbol of gratitude and support. Some key achievements include:
- Over $500 million raised since its founding
- 600+ mortgage-free homes delivered across the country
- Annual 5K runs in more than 70 cities nationwide
- Recognition by major networks like Fox News, CNN, and CBS
- Endorsements from high-profile figures including former presidents, celebrities, and military leaders
One of the most notable moments came in 2021, marking the 20th anniversary of 9/11. Frank Siller embarked on a 537-mile walk from the Pentagon to Shanksville, PA, to Ground Zero in New York City. The “Never Forget Walk” was both a tribute and a fundraising campaign, drawing national attention to the foundation’s work.
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Frank Siller’s Personal Philosophy
In interviews, Frank often credits his family and faith for the strength to carry out this mission. He is known for saying:
“While we lost Stephen, we gained a mission. A mission to keep his legacy alive and help others who serve.”
Frank views his work not as charity, but as a moral obligation to give back to those who risk everything for our safety. His tone is always humble, always sincere—qualities that have helped the foundation earn a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and recognition as one of the most effective nonprofits in America.
Recognition and Awards
Frank Siller has received numerous accolades for his work, including:
- The Presidential Citizens Medal (awarded posthumously to Stephen Siller)
- CNN Hero nomination
- Ellis Island Medal of Honor
- Honorary Doctorates and awards from multiple veterans and first responder organizations
Despite these honors, Frank remains focused on the mission rather than the spotlight.
How You Can Support Tunnel to Towers
One of the reasons Frank Siller’s work continues to resonate is the foundation’s clear message: $11 a month can make a difference.
This simple, recurring donation model—called the “$11/month campaign”—makes giving accessible to everyone. The funds go directly toward building homes, supporting grieving families, and ensuring that our nation’s heroes are never forgotten.
You can also participate in local Tunnel to Towers runs, volunteer at events, or share their mission through social media and community engagement.
Final Thoughts: A Legacy Built on Love and Service
Frank Siller didn’t choose to be a public figure, philanthropist, or activist. But in the wake of tragedy, he chose purpose—and in doing so, he created a legacy of compassion, resilience, and gratitude.
Through the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, Frank has not only honored his brother Stephen, but also elevated the lives of countless Americans. His story is a powerful reminder that one act of courage can inspire a movement, and that even in loss, we can find meaning.
As America continues to face new challenges, Frank Siller’s example shines as a beacon of what it means to truly serve—and to never forget.
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