Firefighter from 9/11 Picture w/ Bush Has Passed Away

The figure that stood with President Bush after the 9/11 attack in some of the most iconic photos in the aftermath of that attack has left us.  

Firefighter Bob Beckwith has passed away at the age of 91.  

Beckwith’s death is related to cancer from working at Ground Zero.  

Sad Day 

Beckwith stood with President Bush among the debris from the 9/11 attack in what is arguably one of the most iconic photos in the immediate days after the attack. 

That photo is often cited as one of the many focal points that rallied and united the country after the attack took place.  

Beckwith’s family announced the news, stating, “Bob lived a life of service to others, whether heeding the call to serve in the Navy during the Korean War or as an FDNY Firefighter for more than 30 years. 

“His iconic moment with President Bush at Ground Zero on 9/11 helped rally the nation in its darkest time and served as a symbol for first responders everywhere. 

“Above all, Bob was the quintessential husband, father, brother, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He will be greatly missed.” 

President Bush had remained in contact with the family since leaving office and expressed his condolences directly to the family upon learning of Beckwith’s death. 

As far as Beckwith’s big moment, it was more of a freak accident than anything else.  

Beckwith was supposed to help Bush up to the pile, and then come down, but Bush kept him up there for the photo.  

Beckwith, at the time, stated, “I said, ‘Oh my God.’ I pulled him up on the rig, I turned him around. I said, ‘Are you OK, Mr. President?’ He said, ‘Yeah.’  

“So, I start to get down and he said, ‘Where you going?’ I said, ‘I was told to get down.’ He said, ‘Oh no, you stay right here.’ And he put his arm around me.” 

Rest in peace Firefighter Beckwith, and thank you for your service, which was above and beyond the call of duty.