Helmet Symbolizes Resiliency Following 9/11
Helmet Symbolizes Resiliency Following 9/11
After the September 11, 2001 attacks, retired FDNY firefighter Bob Beckwith wore this helmet as he volunteered in search efforts at Ground Zero.
Several media outlets have recounted his story: On Sept. 14, 2001, Beckwith stood atop a pile of wreckage next to U.S. President George W. Bush, who was visiting the site. Bush put his arm around Beckwith as he addressed rescue and recovery workers.
When one worker told Bush that he could not hear what he was saying, Bush used a bullhorn and said: “I can hear you! The rest of the world hears you! And the people who knocked these buildings down will hear all of us soon!”
The Beckwith family donated the helmet to the 9/11 Memorial and Museum collection. It is on display in the historical exhibition.
By Jordan Friedman, 9/11 Memorial Research and Digital Projects Associate
Previous Post
Volunteer Recalls Meaningful Experience With British Veteran
On Veteran’s Day last year, we arrived early to assist with placing yellow roses in the names of all veterans on the Memorial who lost their lives on 9/11.
Next Post
Students Volunteer to Tag 9/11 Memorial Trees
As part of National Volunteer Week, students from various high schools in Manhattan, Brooklyn and Queens volunteered to ID tag more than 150 trees on the 9/11 Memorial plaza last weekend.