FRESNO, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE) – Todd Beamer Park in Fresno, named after former Fresno State student and baseball player Todd Beamer, once again hosted its annual 9/11 remembrance ceremony, honoring the nearly 3,000 lives lost during the 2001 attacks. Beamer, a hero on Flight 93, played a key role in the passengers’ effort to thwart hijackers targeting the U.S. Capitol.
“We do this every year, recognizing Todd Beamer’s heroism—the first counterattack against the terrorists on 9/11—as well as the courage of first responders and the lives lost that day,” said Fresno Councilmember Garry Bredefeld.
The fifth annual remembrance event brought together the community to reflect on the tragedy and educate younger generations. “Our mission is to inform and unite the community, especially those too young to remember, about the significance of 9/11,” said Jenny Ganson, president of Teens That Care.
High school student Alek Krikorian contributed to the program with his original poem, “Ashes of Clay,” emphasizing the importance of remembering the past while moving forward.
Chief Master Sergeant Leslie Sundstrom, a keynote speaker and a member of the 144th Fighter Wing, shared her memories of the tragic day. “I was driving to work when I heard the news of the first tower being hit. When I arrived, we watched the second tower go down live and immediately began preparing our planes,” she recalled.
The Fresno County Sheriff’s office also participated, performing a helicopter flyover to honor the day. Retired Master Sergeant Jeffrey Sundstrom, also a keynote speaker, echoed the event’s focus on ensuring future generations remember the significance of 9/11.
“To see young people actively participating and learning about patriotism is humbling,” Sundstrom said.