Retired Firefighter Bob Beckwith, known for his iconic encounter with President George W. Bush at Ground Zero after the September 11 terrorist attacks, has passed away at the age of 91. Beckwith, who had been battling cancer in recent years, died on Sunday night while under hospice care, according to his wife, Barbara Beckwith.

The image of Bob Beckwith, wearing his old firefighter helmet from Ladder Company 164 in Queens, standing alongside President Bush, became a symbol of American unity in the wake of the devastating attacks. Three days after the hijackers crashed airplanes into the twin towers of the World Trade Center, killing thousands, President Bush delivered a rousing speech to weary responders. It was during this speech that Beckwith found himself in the right place at the right time, capturing the attention of the nation.

Barbara Beckwith reflected on her husband's unexpected fame, stating, "He was just lucky. He was at the right place, at the right time, and that's why he's famous. But he was a regular guy. Well-liked and quiet. Just a regular Joe." Bob Beckwith had been retired for seven years following a 30-year career as a firefighter when he rushed to help with search-and-rescue efforts in the aftermath of the attacks. He had simply been looking for a good vantage point to see the president as he surveyed the destruction.

Recalling the moment that would forever be etched in history, Beckwith explained that President Bush made an unexpected detour and climbed aboard the crushed Engine Co. 76 truck where he was standing. Beckwith had helped the president get up on the fire truck and was about to descend when Bush intervened, ensuring that Beckwith would remain by his side. Barbara Beckwith recounted, "The president said to him, 'Where are you going?' 'You're going to be right here with me.'"

The image of Beckwith and President Bush became a symbol of resilience and unity in the face of tragedy. It represented the strength and determination of the American people and the unwavering support of the nation's leaders during a time of immense grief and loss. Beckwith's presence in that photograph forever linked him to the collective memory of September 11, 2001.

Bob Beckwith's passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy as a hero and symbol of American unity will live on. He will be remembered as a regular guy who found himself in an extraordinary moment, embodying the spirit of courage and resilience that defined the response to the September 11 attacks.