David Beamer and the Todd Beamer Fund

The events of September 11, 2001 will forever be engraved in the history books of the United States as a day that changed the nation and altered American’s personal sense of security in a fearful world. One of the heroes of 9/11 was Todd Beamer, a passenger on United Flight 93. Todd and the other passengers on that flight realized the terrorists who had commandeered their plane were heading the craft toward a strategic target to do greater damage than simply to harm the passengers on board. After conferring with the other passengers, it was Todd’s rallying words, “Are you ready? Let’s roll!” that set in motion a counterattack from the passengers and crew. This successful counterattack ended when Flight 93 crashed in a quiet field in Pennsylvania, far short of its suspected target in Washington D.C.

Many believe the terrorists had plotted to crash the plane into the White House or even into the United States capitol building. All of the passengers and crew died in the battle, including Todd Beamer. Beamer was a devoted Christian. His faith in God influenced not only his value of human life, but also his hope for eternal life.

Todd’s father David Beamer, in cooperation with Emmanuel School of Religion in Johnson City, Tennessee, is available to speak to you and your church. Emmanuel is a graduate seminary dedicated to preparing leaders for the church around the world. In the Emmanuel Village, The Todd Beamer Cottage stands as a tribute to this American hero. Outside the Beamer Cottage is a plaque that reads: “Awoke a free man – Became a soldier. Died a hero – Died a Christian.”

David received his B.S. and M.B.A. from Ohio State University. For the following 38 years he was employed in the computer and technology field, and was Vice President and President for a few leaders in the industry. Emmanuel now has the privilege of David Beamer’s service as the Special Assistant to the President. Mr. Beamer is married to his high school sweetheart, Peggy. They have two surviving children and together enjoy six grandchildren.