Bob Beckwith was working in the smoldering ruins of the World Trade Center when George W. Bush visited the site.
A former New York City firefighter who shot to fame after being photographed next to then-President George W. Bush in the aftermath of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks has died at the age of 91.
Bob Beckwith was working in the smoldering ruins of the World Trade Center three days after the attacks when President Bush visited the site and gave a speech promising to hold the perpetrators accountable.
President Bush told rescue workers searching for survivors: “I hear you, the rest of the world can hear you, and the people who destroyed these buildings will soon hear you.” All of our voices will be heard.”
The photo of President Bush with his arm around Beckwith and speaking into a megaphone is one of the best-known symbols of the American people's grief and resolve in the days after hijackers crashed the plane into the Twin Towers. It became part of the photo.
“Bob Beckwith was one of many FDNY retirees [Fire Department of New York] “The members of our team who were on the scene at the World Trade Center in the days and months after September 11th to assist with rescue and recovery efforts are a testament to their dedication to FDNY families,” said Fire Marshal Laura Kavanaugh. said in a statement Monday.
“His iconic photo with President Bush captured a moment that was both moving and heartbreaking. We are grateful for his service to our city and nation, and we are grateful to his family and I join with his friends in mourning his death.”
President Bush paid tribute to Beckwith on Monday, saying it was an honor to keep in touch with a “decent, humble man” over the years.
“When the terrorists attacked, Bob retreated and, like so many brave first responders, ran toward danger to save and search for others. His bravery inspired him on 9/11. It symbolized the rebellious and resilient spirit of later New Yorkers and Americans,” Bush said in a statement published in X.
Born in 1932, Beckwith had a nearly 30-year career as a New York City firefighter.
Despite retiring in 1994, he joined many other current and former first responders to help search for survivors in the hours and days after the attack.
