Officer who called in Sept. 11 attack on Pentagon dies from service-related cancer

ARLINGTON, Va. (Gray News) - The officer responsible for reporting the terrorist attack on the Pentagon on Sept. 11, 2001, has died from 9/11-related cancer.

Corporal Barry Foust of the Arlington County Police Department died on May 22 at 64 years old.

Foust was on patrol when American Airlines Flight 77 hit the Pentagon. After immediately reporting the attack, he spent the next week at the site helping to collect evidence and the remains of those who died in the attack.

“Corporal Barry Foust truly embodied the spirit of public service, dedicating over 35 years to the safety and protection of others,” said Chief Andy Penn. “His response to the terrorist attack at the Pentagon is a testament to his bravery and unwavering commitment to being there for people in their time of need. He selflessly served others, including as a mentor to many younger officers, helping guide and shape these law enforcement professionals. His remarkable resilience and contributions to the Arlington community will never be forgotten and he leaves an enduring and lasting impact on our agency.”

He joined the ACPD in 1986 and retired in 2019.

Not even a year after retiring, Foust joined the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority Police Department, where he served until December 2022. At that point, he returned to ACPD as the station struggled with post-pandemic staffing.

A funeral for Corporal Foust was planned for June 2.