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35 Facts About Mark Bingham

Glen Owens

Written by Glen Owens

Modified & Updated: 02 Oct 2024

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Source: Metrosource.com

Who was Mark Bingham? Mark Bingham was a remarkable individual whose bravery and heroism have left a lasting impact. Born on May 22, 1970, he was a public relations executive and an avid rugby player. But what truly sets him apart is his courageous act on September 11, 2001. Bingham was one of the passengers on United Airlines Flight 93 who fought back against the hijackers, preventing the plane from reaching its intended target. His actions, along with those of his fellow passengers, saved countless lives. Mark Bingham's legacy is a testament to the power of courage and selflessness in the face of unimaginable danger.

Key Takeaways:

  • Mark Bingham, a brave passenger on Flight 93, is remembered for his heroic actions and advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights, leaving a lasting impact on society and inspiring courage.
  • Mark Bingham's legacy lives on through memorials, scholarships, and advocacy, continuing to inspire and support LGBTQ+ rights and public safety.
Table of Contents
01Who Was Mark Bingham?
02The Heroic Actions on Flight 93
03Legacy and Memorials
04Personal Life and Interests
05Impact on LGBTQ+ Community
06Recognition and Honors
07Influence on Media and Culture
08Continuing His Legacy
09Mark Bingham's Legacy

Who Was Mark Bingham?

Mark Bingham was a passenger on United Airlines Flight 93 during the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. His bravery and actions on that day have made him a symbol of courage and heroism.

  1. Born on May 22, 1970, in Phoenix, Arizona, Mark Bingham grew up in California.
  2. He attended Los Gatos High School, where he played rugby and football.
  3. Bingham graduated from the University of California, Berkeley, with a degree in Social Sciences.
  4. He was a member of the Chi Psi fraternity during his time at Berkeley.
  5. Mark founded The Bingham Group, a public relations firm in San Francisco.
  6. He was openly gay and an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights.

The Heroic Actions on Flight 93

Mark Bingham's actions on Flight 93 have been widely recognized and honored. Along with other passengers, he attempted to regain control of the plane from the hijackers.

  1. Bingham made a phone call to his mother, Alice Hoagland, from the plane, informing her of the hijacking.
  2. He, along with Todd Beamer, Tom Burnett, and Jeremy Glick, planned to storm the cockpit.
  3. Their efforts prevented the hijackers from reaching their intended target, believed to be the U.S. Capitol or the White House.
  4. Flight 93 crashed into a field in Shanksville, Pennsylvania, killing all on board but saving countless lives on the ground.

Legacy and Memorials

Mark Bingham's legacy lives on through various memorials and honors dedicated to him and the other passengers of Flight 93.

  1. The Flight 93 National Memorial in Pennsylvania commemorates the bravery of the passengers and crew.
  2. A rugby tournament, the Bingham Cup, was established in his honor and is held biennially.
  3. The Mark Kendall Bingham Memorial Scholarship Fund supports LGBTQ+ students.
  4. He was posthumously awarded the Arthur Ashe Courage Award in 2002.
  5. Bingham's story was featured in the 2006 film "United 93."

Personal Life and Interests

Beyond his heroic actions, Mark Bingham had a rich personal life filled with various interests and passions.

  1. He was an avid rugby player and played for the San Francisco Fog, an inclusive rugby team.
  2. Bingham enjoyed outdoor activities like hiking and skiing.
  3. He had a close relationship with his mother, Alice Hoagland, who became an advocate for airline safety and LGBTQ+ rights after his death.
  4. Mark was known for his adventurous spirit and love for travel.
  5. He had a pet dog named Thea, who was a significant part of his life.

Impact on LGBTQ+ Community

Mark Bingham's life and actions have had a lasting impact on the LGBTQ+ community, inspiring many to live authentically and courageously.

  1. His openness about his sexuality helped break stereotypes and promote acceptance.
  2. The Bingham Cup has become a symbol of inclusivity and diversity in sports.
  3. Bingham's story has been used to educate and inspire young LGBTQ+ individuals.
  4. His mother, Alice Hoagland, has continued his legacy by advocating for LGBTQ+ rights and airline safety.

Recognition and Honors

Mark Bingham has received numerous recognitions and honors for his bravery and contributions to society.

  1. He was inducted into the National Gay and Lesbian Sports Hall of Fame in 2013.
  2. The San Francisco Fog Rugby Football Club named their home field "Bingham Field" in his honor.
  3. Bingham's name is inscribed on the National September 11 Memorial in New York City.
  4. He was featured in the documentary "With You," which chronicles his life and legacy.
  5. The Mark Bingham Leadership Fund supports emerging leaders in the LGBTQ+ community.

Influence on Media and Culture

Mark Bingham's story has influenced various forms of media and culture, highlighting his heroism and impact.

  1. He was portrayed by actor Cheyenne Jackson in the 2006 film "United 93."
  2. Bingham's life was the subject of the book "Among the Heroes" by Jere Longman.
  3. His story has been featured in numerous documentaries and news segments.
  4. The Bingham Cup has been covered by major media outlets, bringing attention to LGBTQ+ issues in sports.
  5. Bingham's legacy continues to inspire books, films, and articles about courage and heroism.

Continuing His Legacy

Mark Bingham's legacy continues to inspire and impact people around the world, reminding us of the power of courage and unity.

  1. The Mark Bingham Foundation was established to support causes he cared about, including LGBTQ+ rights and public safety.

Mark Bingham's Legacy

Mark Bingham's story is a testament to courage and resilience. His actions on United Flight 93 during the 9/11 attacks showed the world what true heroism looks like. Bingham's legacy goes beyond that fateful day. He was a successful entrepreneur, a passionate rugby player, and a proud advocate for the LGBTQ+ community. His life reminds us that ordinary people can do extraordinary things when faced with unimaginable circumstances. Bingham's bravery continues to inspire countless individuals to stand up for what is right, no matter the odds. His memory lives on through the Mark Bingham Foundation, which supports causes he cared about deeply. By remembering his story, we honor not just his sacrifice but also the values he stood for: bravery, love, and unwavering commitment to making the world a better place.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was Mark Bingham known for?
Mark Bingham gained fame for his heroic actions aboard United Airlines Flight 93 during the September 11 attacks in 2001. His bravery, along with others, played a crucial role in thwarting the hijackers' plan to target a location in Washington, D.C.
How did Mark Bingham contribute to the events on Flight 93?
On that fateful day, Bingham, alongside fellow passengers, made the decision to fight back against the hijackers. Their courageous attempt to regain control of the aircraft ultimately led to its crash in a field in Pennsylvania, preventing further tragedy.
Was Mark Bingham involved in sports?
Yes, indeed. Bingham was not only a successful public relations executive but also an avid rugby player. He played for the San Francisco Fog, a team that promotes inclusivity in sports, emphasizing his belief in equality and acceptance.
Did Mark Bingham leave behind any legacy?
Beyond his heroic actions, Bingham's legacy lives on through various memorials and scholarships established in his honor. These initiatives support causes he was passionate about, including education and the promotion of sports as a means to unite people.
How has Mark Bingham been remembered in popular culture?
His life and heroism have been commemorated in books, films, and documentaries. Notably, his story has been featured in "United 93," a film that portrays the events of Flight 93, and in several documentaries that highlight the passengers' bravery.
What impact did Mark Bingham's actions have on society?
Bingham's actions, along with those of his fellow passengers on Flight 93, have had a profound impact on society. They've become symbols of courage and selflessness, inspiring countless individuals to act with bravery in the face of adversity.
Can you tell me more about Mark Bingham's early life?
Born in 1970, Bingham grew up with a strong sense of adventure and a deep love for his country. He excelled in academics and sports during his school years, laying the foundation for his later achievements in both his professional career and athletic pursuits.

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