Beverly Eckert

Beverly Eckert

Beverly Eckert was an American activist who became a prominent advocate for the families of 9/11 victims following the death of her husband, Sean Rooney, in the September 11, 2001, attacks. Born on May 29, 1951, in Buffalo, New York, Eckert met Rooney at a high school dance when they were both 16. The couple married in 1980 and settled in Stamford, Connecticut. On that tragic day, Rooney was working on the 98th floor of the South Tower of the World Trade Center. Trapped by the impact of United Airlines Flight 175, he called Eckert, and they shared their final moments over the phone before the tower collapsed.

In the aftermath of her husband’s death, Eckert channeled her grief into advocacy. She co-founded Voices of September 11th, an organization dedicated to providing support for 9/11 families and promoting public policy reform on issues related to terrorism. Eckert was instrumental in pushing for the establishment of the 9/11 Commission to investigate the attacks and worked tirelessly to ensure that the voices of the victims’ families were heard.

Tragically, on February 12, 2009, Eckert died in the crash of Continental Connection Flight 3407 near Buffalo, New York. She was traveling to her hometown to award a scholarship in her husband’s memory at Canisius High School. Her death was a significant loss to the 9/11 community and all who were touched by her dedication and resilience.

Eckert’s legacy continues through the ongoing work of organizations she helped establish and the reforms she championed. Her story serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring impact one individual can have in the face of profound personal tragedy.

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