Community Gathers at Todd Beamer Park for 9/11 Remembrance

Lead Hundreds of residents and first responders convened at Fresno’s Todd Beamer Park today for the 6th annual 9/11 Ceremony of Remembrance, honoring Flight 93 hero Todd Beamer and all those lost on September 11, 2001.

Nut Graf Hosted by local nonprofit Teens That Care, the event underscored the enduring impact of civilian courage and community unity, spotlighting Beamer’s rallying cry, “Let’s roll,” and drawing parallels between past sacrifice and present solidarity.

Mid-Morning Ceremony

• Opening remarks and invocation by community leaders
• Presentation of colors and moment of silence at 8:46 a.m.
• Ringing of the memorial bell to mark each attack’s impact time

Keynote Address Colonel Rob Swertfager, Fresno State alumnus and USAF veteran, reflected on Beamer’s decisive leadership aboard United Flight 93 and urged attendees to embody the selflessness demonstrated on that flight.

Visual Tributes

• Display of 40 white flags representing Flight 93’s passengers and crew
• Photo exhibit chronicling Beamer’s final phone call and the passenger revolt
• Local first-responder stair climb reenacting the ascent of the World Trade Center towers

Community Engagement Teens That Care volunteers distributed commemorative pins and 9/11 T-shirts, while nearby students read short essays on lessons of courage. Families shared personal memories of loved ones lost, reinforcing the ceremony’s personal resonance.

Looking Ahead Organizers announced plans to expand next year’s ceremony with virtual participation and educational workshops at Fresno Unified School District, aiming to engage a new generation in remembrance and service.