The name Todd Beamer is forever etched in American history as one of the brave individuals who took action aboard United Airlines Flight 93 on September 11, 2001. Known for his iconic phrase, “Let’s roll,” Beamer and his fellow passengers courageously attempted to thwart the hijackers’ plans, ultimately preventing a greater tragedy. His heroism, along with that of the other passengers, has made him a symbol of courage and selflessness in the face of unimaginable danger.
Who Was Todd Beamer?
Todd Beamer was born on November 24, 1968, in Flint, Michigan. He grew up in a close-knit, faith-based family and was known for his strong moral character and leadership qualities from an early age. After attending Wheaton College in Illinois, he went on to marry his college sweetheart, Lisa, and the couple had two sons, David and Drew, with another child on the way at the time of the September 11 attacks. Beamer worked as a software sales executive for Oracle, and on the morning of September 11, 2001, he was traveling for business on United Airlines Flight 93.
Todd Beamer’s Role on Flight 93
On September 11, 2001, Flight 93 was one of four commercial planes hijacked by terrorists as part of a coordinated attack against the United States. While two planes crashed into the World Trade Center and one into the Pentagon, Flight 93’s intended target was believed to be a significant site in Washington, D.C., possibly the White House or U.S. Capitol.
As the hijackers took control of the plane, Beamer and several other passengers quickly realized the gravity of the situation. After learning through phone calls about the attacks on the World Trade Center, they made the fateful decision to take action. Todd Beamer, along with fellow passengers, planned to storm the cockpit in an effort to prevent the terrorists from carrying out their attack.
Before attempting to overtake the hijackers, Beamer made a phone call to an operator, where he recited the Lord’s Prayer and the 23rd Psalm. His last words, overheard by the operator, were “Are you guys ready? Okay, let’s roll,” signaling the beginning of their attempt to regain control of the plane.
“Let’s Roll”: A Legacy of Courage
Beamer’s phrase, “Let’s roll,” quickly became a national rallying cry for courage, unity, and action. It symbolized the bravery of the passengers and crew who, despite knowing the risks, chose to fight back against the terrorists. While the exact details of what happened in the cockpit remain unknown, it is clear that their actions forced the hijackers to crash the plane into a field near Shanksville, Pennsylvania, instead of reaching its intended target.
The passengers of Flight 93, including Todd Beamer, are remembered as heroes who saved countless lives. Their sacrifice prevented even greater devastation on a day that already claimed nearly 3,000 victims.
Todd Beamer’s Personal Life and Family
Todd Beamer left behind his wife, Lisa Beamer, who was pregnant with their third child at the time of his death. In the aftermath of the attacks, Lisa became a public figure, speaking about her husband’s heroism and the importance of faith in her family’s life. She also wrote a book titled “Let’s Roll! Ordinary People, Extraordinary Courage”, detailing Todd’s life and the events of September 11.
The Beamer family’s Christian faith was central to Todd’s values and actions. His deep sense of responsibility, integrity, and devotion to his family and country shaped the decisions he made during his final moments. Today, his children are growing up with the legacy of their father’s courage, knowing that his selflessness played a critical role in protecting others.
The Todd M. Beamer Foundation
In honor of Todd Beamer and his legacy, the Todd M. Beamer Foundation was established in 2002. The foundation’s mission is to equip young people facing trauma with the resources and support they need to overcome challenges and make positive choices. The foundation’s programs are based on Todd’s own values of integrity, leadership, and faith, aiming to inspire future generations to live with courage and compassion.
The foundation has since been renamed Heroic Choices, continuing its work to help children and families affected by trauma, honoring the spirit of Todd Beamer’s heroism and his desire to help others.
Todd Beamer’s Impact on American Culture
Todd Beamer’s story has become a symbol of heroism, not just for his actions on Flight 93, but also for the way he lived his life. His final words, “Let’s roll,” have been used in political speeches, cultural references, and even by the military to inspire action and bravery. President George W. Bush referenced the phrase in the days following the attacks, and it has since become an enduring part of American rhetoric.
For many, Beamer represents the best of what it means to be an American—courage in the face of adversity, a willingness to sacrifice for the greater good, and a sense of responsibility to protect others. His story continues to resonate with people around the world as an example of ordinary individuals rising to extraordinary challenges.
Visiting the Flight 93 National Memorial
To honor the passengers and crew of Flight 93, including Todd Beamer, the Flight 93 National Memorial was established in Shanksville, Pennsylvania. The memorial includes the Wall of Names, which displays the names of the 40 passengers and crew, as well as the Tower of Voices, a 93-foot tower that contains 40 wind chimes—one for each individual who perished.
Visitors to the memorial can also learn about the events of September 11, 2001, through exhibits and educational programs. The story of Todd Beamer and his fellow passengers is central to the narrative of heroism told at the site. It serves as a place of reflection, remembrance, and gratitude for the lives that were saved by their actions.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Heroism
Todd Beamer’s heroism on September 11, 2001, will never be forgotten. His quick thinking, courage, and selflessness in the face of terror prevented further devastation and saved countless lives. His iconic words, “Let’s roll,” continue to inspire Americans and remind us of the strength and unity that emerged from one of the darkest days in our nation’s history.