CHANTILLY, VA -- Lt. Col. (Ret.) Brian Birdwell is a survivor of the terrorist’s attack on the Pentagon on Sept. 11, 2001. After American Airlines Flight 77 collided into the Pentagon, very close to his second floor office, LTC Birdwell was thrown to the ground and engulfed in flames. Of the burns that consumed 60 percent of his body, nearly half were third-degree burns. With more than 30 operations and months of multiple skin grafts and burn treatments, LTC Birdwell has overcome many challenges.

Birdwell will be the Keynote Speaker at the Automotive Parts Remanufacturers Association’s International BIG R Show at the Riviera Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, on Monday, October 30.

LTC Birdwell is a native of Fort Worth, TX, and distinguished himself in the United States Army by serving in South Korea, Germany and Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm. He earned the Bronze Star for his action in the Gulf War.

At the time of the Sept. 11th attack, LTC Birdwell was serving on the Department of the Army Staff at the Pentagon as the executive officer to the deputy assistant chief of staff for installation management. He was awarded the Purple Heart for wounds received on Sept.11.

LTC Birdwell’s inspirational message to the attendees at the 2006 International BIG R Show will highlight his experiences before, during and after the terrorist attack and how his faith and determination helped him to overcome pain and numerous obstacles.

For details on registering for the International BIG R Show, please contact (703) 968-2772 ext 105 or visit: BIGRShow.com .

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