Approximately 100 uniformed officers, friends, and family gathered on Tuesday at Cherrydale Baptist Church in Arlington to honor Corporal Barry Foust, a longtime Arlington County Police Department officer and first responder to the Pentagon attack on September 11, 2001. Foust passed away on May 22 at the age of 64 from pancreatic cancer linked to his exposure during the rescue and recovery efforts following the terrorist attack.

On the morning of September 11, 2001, Foust was on patrol when he observed a passenger jet veering off course near the Pentagon. Shortly thereafter, he reported the incident to dispatch, marking the beginning of Arlington County’s emergency response. He subsequently spent a week at the crash site recovering evidence and the remains of victims.

Arlington Police Chief Andy Penn reflected on the lasting impact of the attacks, stating that nearly 25 years later, the consequences continue to affect the public safety community. He noted that first responders like Foust, who risked their lives during the crisis, have suffered long-term health effects as a result of their service that day.

Foust’s battle with pancreatic cancer is among the many health conditions linked to exposures during and after the attacks. The World Trade Center Health Program, overseen by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, monitors and provides treatment for first responders and survivors who face illnesses such as asthma, various cancers, and post-traumatic stress disorder related to toxins and trauma experienced on 9/11.

Known by colleagues as “Bear,” Foust was remembered at the memorial for his wit, generosity, and ability to ease tensions with humor. He joined the Arlington police force in 1986 after earning a criminal justice degree from Penn State University. Growing up as the middle child on a dairy farm in Hawley, Pennsylvania, Foust was cherished by his family for a joyful and mischievous childhood. His innovative public safety efforts, including the use of illuminated signboards to warn drivers, earned him recognition throughout his nearly four-decade career.

During the service, attendees wore purple bracelets with messages such as #fightlikeabear and #BEARSTRONG778, referencing Foust’s badge number. An honor guard saluted as his ashes were carried out, and a dispatcher’s voice commemorated him with the call sign “Arlington calling unit 778.” A flag flown on the naval ship USS Arlington, named in honor of those affected by the Pentagon attack, will be presented to his family as a tribute.