1. Retired NY firefighter Bob Beckwith death
2. NY firefighter Bob Beckwith obituary.
Bob Beckwith, Heroic Firefighter from 9/11 Attacks, Passes Away at 91
Baldwin, Long Island – Bob Beckwith, a retired firefighter who gained fame for his iconic image standing alongside President George W. Bush in the aftermath of the September 11 terrorist attacks, has sadly passed away at the age of 91. Beckwith’s wife, Barbara Beckwith, announced his passing on Monday, revealing that he had been battling cancer in recent years.
Bob Beckwith, a former firefighter from Ladder Company 164 in Queens, rose to prominence when he stood with President Bush during a speech delivered to exhausted first responders just three days after the twin towers of the World Trade Center were attacked by hijacked airplanes, resulting in the loss of 2,753 lives.
Beckwith’s wife fondly remembers him as a regular guy who happened to be in the right place at the right time. Despite his newfound fame, he remained well-liked, quiet, and humble, earning the respect of those around him.
At the time of the attacks, Beckwith was 69 years old and had retired from his 30-year career as a firefighter seven years prior. However, like many other current and former first responders, he rushed to the scene to assist with the search and rescue efforts.
Beckwith had originally positioned himself to get a better view of the president as he surveyed the destruction. However, Bush surprised him by boarding the damaged Engine Co. 76 truck on which Beckwith was standing. This unexpected encounter immortalized Beckwith in history.
Barbara Beckwith recalls her husband’s interaction with President Bush, stating that he had intended to step down from the truck, but the president insisted that he stay by his side. Bush’s arm draped around Beckwith as he addressed the crowd of firefighters, police officers, and others through a bullhorn.
The president’s powerful words, “I can hear you, the rest of the world hears you, and the people who knocked down these buildings will hear all of us soon,” resonated with the crowd, leading them to chant “USA! USA!” in solidarity.
The moment captured in video and photographs by various news outlets became an enduring symbol of resilience and unity in the face of tragedy. Beckwith’s image even graced the cover of Time magazine, a cherished memento that he proudly displayed in his home.
Bob Beckwith will be laid to rest on Long Island, where he raised his family. He leaves behind a loving family, including six children, 10 grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. Former President Bush, who maintained contact with the Beckwith family over the years, personally reached out to offer his condolences.
In a heartfelt statement, President Bush honored Beckwith’s courage and described him as a true representation of the resilient spirit of New Yorkers and Americans in the aftermath of the attacks. He commended Beckwith’s selflessness and dedication to saving and searching for others, highlighting his unwavering commitment to his duty.
New York City Fire Commissioner Laura Kavanagh praised Beckwith and his fellow first responders for their heroic efforts. She called the famous image of Beckwith and President Bush both inspiring and heartbreaking, emphasizing the dedication and devotion they displayed in service to others.
Bob Beckwith’s passing is a somber reminder of the sacrifices made by the brave men and women who risked their lives to save others on that fateful day. His memory will forever live on as a symbol of courage and resilience in the face of adversity.
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1. Retired NY firefighter Bob Beckwith death
2. NY firefighter Bob Beckwith obituary.
