FDNY Hero Bob Beckwith, recognized for 9/11 stand with president Bush, passes away at 90

The Uniformed Firefighters Association revealed the passing of Bob Beckwith, a former FDNY firefighter who played a crucial role in the search and rescue efforts during the tragic events of 9/11.

The 90-year-old veteran, who gained national recognition for standing alongside former President George W. Bush in an iconic photograph following the September 11 attacks, succumbed to the passage of time, leaving behind a legacy etched in the annals of American history.

Retired at the time of the 9/11 attacks, Beckwith’s commitment to service was reignited as he witnessed the collapse of the South Tower of the World Trade Center. In a selfless act of valor, he joined the search and rescue operations, dedicating countless hours to finding and honoring the fallen members of the FDNY. The Uniformed Firefighters Association, expressing their gratitude on X (formerly Twitter), lauded Beckwith as a true hero of 9/11, emphasizing his enduring impact on America, New York City, and all its residents.

FDNY Commissioner Laura Kavanagh, in a solemn statement, recounted Beckwith’s illustrious career, detailing his tenure from joining the department in 1965 at Ladder 117 in Queens to his retirement in 1994 at Ladder 164. Kavanagh acknowledged Beckwith’s pivotal role as one of the retired FDNY members who rallied to the World Trade Center site in the aftermath of 9/11, showcasing unwavering dedication to the FDNY family.