Ryan Austin O’Hara

United States Army Staff Sergeant Ryan Austin O’Hara tragically passed away on January 29, 2025 during the mid-air collision between a Blackhawk UH-60 and an American Airlines CRJ700. His dedication to service and commitment to his country were unwavering, and his loss is deeply felt by all who knew him.

O’Hara was raised in Lilburn, Georgia, alongside his parents, Mary and Gary, and his sister, Taryn. From an early age, he immersed himself in activities that demanded focus, discipline, and resilience. Through Tae Kwon Do, MCJROTC, and the Rifle team, he cultivated a strong work ethic and an unwavering sense of purpose. These formative experiences didn’t just shape his character, they ignited a deep sense of duty and a drive for precision that would become the hallmark of his future military service.

A fascination with helicopters—especially the iconic Blackhawk—ignited O’Hara’s desire to serve. Intrigued by aviation and driven by a passion for mechanical work, he saw the Army as the perfect outlet to immerse himself in hands-on, technical challenges. In 2014, he enlisted with a simple goal: to “turn every wrench he could get his hands on.” That decision launched a career marked by relentless drive, sharp intellect, and a commitment to excellence. Early in his service, his intensity occasionally led to friction with superiors as he pushed boundaries and challenged the knowledge of seasoned NCOs in the Quality Control shop. Yet rather than punish him, leadership saw his potential and matched him with crew chief Ashley. With Ashley’s guidance, O’Hara learned to temper his fierce determination with patience and humility.

Life shifted beautifully when O’Hara met his wife, Danielle, in Savannah, Georgia. Their bond was instant, built on a shared love for the outdoors and a deep, thoughtful connection. Whether riding motorcycles, camping, hiking, or simply enjoying quiet mornings over coffee, their time together was filled with joy, laughter, and rich conversations about life, growth, and purpose. O’Hara’s sharp mind, unique outlook, and sense of humor made every moment memorable. Some of their most treasured times were spontaneous adventures on the road, quiet weekends watching wildlife, and watching their son reach new milestones. Parenthood became their greatest joy—family trips, even when their son slept through most of them, were filled with love and intention. They dreamed of showing him the world through the lens of curiosity, compassion, and courage.

Their son, Wyatt, became the center of their world. Every moment with him, whether a quiet cuddle, a small discovery, or a sleepy car ride—brought a new layer of meaning to O’Hara’s life. His birth marked not just a new chapter, but the fulfillment of a dream O’Hara deeply cherished: to pass on his values, his way of thinking, and his love of life. Wyatt’s full name, Wyatt Arkyn O’Hara, was chosen with great intention. In Gaelic, it means “Brave Warrior, Heir to the King of the Hara Clan”. The name reflects the strength, honor, and legacy that O’Hara embodied.

O’Hara’s legacy extended far beyond his professional accomplishments. He was a natural mentor who led by example, always willing to share his knowledge and invest in others’ growth. His colleagues admired his intelligence, his patience, and his unwavering dedication to getting the job done right. He was a planner, a doer, a thinker—and above all, someone who gave fully of himself to those he cared about. His character was defined by compassion, conviction, and an enduring desire to uplift and protect those around him.

United States Army Staff Sergeant Ryan Austin O’Hara is survived by his loving wife, Danielle and their son, Wyatt.

The Tunnel to Towers Foundation has provided the O’Hara family with a mortgage-free home through the Gold Star Family Home Program.