In Memory of Beverly Eckert

We were all shocked and saddened by the terrible plane crash in upstate NY, just outside of Buffalo, last Thursday night. 50 people were killed when a Continental Airlines flight crashed into a private home six miles short of the airport. No one survived.

I got the news on Friday morning, but I was really stunned to hear that Beverly Eckert, who was a 9/11 widow and worked tirelessly to honor her late husband and all the victims, was on that plane. She was an eloquent spokesperson who earned the respect of everyone who knew her.

I met Ms. Eckert at one of the luncheons that the Voices of September 11, which I am a member of, sponsors every anniversary of the attacks. While I did not know her well, she is remembered fondly by all those who worked with her to make sure that a beautiful and lasting memorial would be built for her late husband, Sean Rooney of Aon Corporation, and all those who perished at the World Trade Center. She had also met with President Obama earlier this week at the White House along with other 9/11 family members.

Ms. Eckert was going to Buffalo for a 58th birthday remembrance for her late husband. The news of her tragic death has hit the 9/11 community hard, and I can only wish her family, who've had their share of terrible tragedy to deal with, my deepest condolences on her passing. The work she did on behalf of her husband and all the victims will never be forgotten.