When tragedy struck near Reagan National Airport, a helicopter carrying U.S. service members collided with an American Airlines flight, taking the life of Staff Sgt. Ryan O’Hara, crew chief of the Black Hawk. Among the first to respond were D.C. firefighters, who recovered the victims from the Potomac River.
One of those firefighters, probationary firefighter Sean Wathen, a former Marine, noticed Ryan’s flight suit and immediately recognized the man before him was a fellow service member. Without hesitation, Wathen decided that Ryan would not be left alone. For four hours, he stood vigil over the soldier’s body, honoring his service and showing the utmost respect.
Gary O’Hara, Ryan’s father, expressed his profound gratitude: “One thing I want to say and thank is all those first responders, the people that sacrificed themselves to jump into that ice-cold water… you helped bring our boy home. There are no words to express our thanks.”
In an unimaginable moment of loss, Sean Wathen’s actions exemplified the enduring bonds of service — a Marine honoring a fellow service member. His quiet courage ensured that Staff Sgt. O’Hara received the dignity and respect every hero deserves.
