Los Gatos High School recently paid tribute to two of its alumni, Todd Beamer and Mark Bingham, who were passengers on United Airlines Flight 93 during the September 11 terrorist attacks. Flight 93, which was bound for San Francisco, ultimately crashed into an open field in Pennsylvania after passengers intervened against the hijackers.
Alumni Background and Legacy
School Connections: Todd Beamer was a baseball player and Mark Bingham was a star on the rugby team, with the two alumni having been just a class apart during their time at Los Gatos High School.
Ultimate Sacrifice: More than a decade after graduating, both found themselves on the same flight from Newark to SFO and joined other passengers in hatching a plan to overtake the hijackers, with Beamer famously giving the rallying cry “let’s roll”.
Memorial Plaque: A plaque stands at the front of Los Gatos High School to honor Beamer and Bingham, serving as a reminder for future generations to learn about their courage.
Memorial Event and Remarks
Military Flyover and Speeches: A military flyover preceded a Los Gatos High School football game to honor the alumni alongside all those who lost their lives on 9/11, accompanied by remarks from Congressman Sam Liccardo and Los Gatos-Saratoga Union High School Superintendent Heath Rocha.
Community Impact: Superintendent Heath Rocha noted that 9/11 is part of the school’s story and emphasized the lesson of service over self, highlighting that Beamer and Bingham knowingly gave their lives to save thousands. Congressman Sam Liccardo added that their actions demonstrated the best of America during a moment of profound horror.
