Statement of Fire Commissioner Laura Kavanagh on passing of Retired Firefighter Robert “Bob” Beckwith

February 5, 2024

“Bob Beckwith was one of many retired FDNY members who responded to the World Trade Center site in the days and months following September 11, to aid in rescue and recovery, as a testament to their devotion to their FDNY family,” said Fire Commissioner Laura Kavanagh. “His iconic picture with President Bush captured a moment that was both inspiring and heartbreaking. We are grateful to his service to our city and our nation, and we join his family and friends in mourning his loss.”

Firefighter Robert “Bob” Beckwith was born on April 16, 1932. He joined the FDNY in 1965 and was assigned to Ladder 117 in Queens. In 1987, he transferred to Ladder 164 where he spent the remainder of his career, before retiring in 1994.