The annual “Tribute to Heroes” luncheon today in Cedar Rapids will have a special guest linked to the terrorist attacks of September 11th. The luncheon is the kickoff event for the city’s “Freedom Festival.” Spokesperson Nancy Wendler says their special guest is Doug MacMillian, a close friend of Todd Beamer.Beamer was the passenger aboard United flight 93 who said “Let’s Roll” as the passengers went after the hijackers and prevented them from flying into the White House. MacMillian will give a message about people.She says he’ll talk about everyday heroism and what it means to people’s lives.MacMillian left his job as a company CEO to start the Beamer Foundation to raise funds and awareness for the children of victims of terrorism. Wendler says six local heroes will be honored. Wendler says tickets for the luncheon are sold out.
