Sean Dylan Ahern

United States Army Sergeant Sean Dylan Ahern tragically lost his life on March 8, 2024, from service-connected lung disease.

Ahern was a devoted family man who spent his early years in Florida before moving to Ava, New York. One of four children, he grew up alongside two sisters and a brother. He spent his summers baling hay on the family farm and caring for his younger siblings, whom he cherished deeply. In his leisure time, Ahern enjoyed reading science fiction novels and going to the movies. He had a natural curiosity about the world and was deeply connected to his friends and family.

On September 21, 2000, Ahern continued the proud family tradition and enlisted in the military. His decision was deeply influenced by the examples set by his father and grandfather. His father, John Ahern, was a distinguished Vietnam Veteran, and his grandfather, John Ahern Sr., served in the United States Navy. This lineage of military dedication undoubtedly shaped Ahern’s path, instilling in him a sense of duty and a desire to contribute to national defense. Ahern achieved numerous awards while serving, including the Bronze Star Medal, Overseas Service Bars, Global War Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Joint Meritorious Unit Award, NATO Medal, and Good Conduct Medal.

During Ahern’s time of service, he recounted a particularly memorable experience from his time stationed in Afghanistan. He and his comrades were often followed by a group of local children, to whom they would distribute candy sent from friends and family in their home country. On one occasion, an 8-year-old child approached Ahern and warned him that the enemy had placed a roadside bomb along their intended path. This timely warning is credited with saving the lives of Ahern and his team.

Ahern first met his future wife, Lindsay, at Kelley’s Restaurant in Syracuse, NY. Their initial conversation lasted for several hours, and a strong connection was immediately established. Lindsay recognized her affection for him without hesitation and immediately knew she loved him. Their engagement took place a year later, followed by their marriage in Ireland a few months thereafter. Lindsay cherishes her memories of Ahern as an exceptional father. She fondly remembers that her happiest moments were always spent with the entire family together. On Sundays, they would take their children out for delicious donuts and chocolate milk, savoring the simple joys. Summer weekends were spent going to local theme parks and hosting pizza gatherings, filling their home with warmth and love.

Family and friends were most important to Ahern, a lesson he always preached. Everything he did, he did for them. His integrity carried him through his almost 20-year career as a policeman, and so many people he dealt with on the job contacted Lindsay after Ahern passed to tell her what a wonderful impact he had on them during their worst moments. Ahern carries on a legacy teaching others to be strong and always do the right thing, even when no one else is looking. He was fiercely loyal to his friends and family—never taking them for granted. Since Ahern’s passing, Lindsay has enrolled their children as junior auxiliary members at their local American Legion. Ahern and Lindsay were both members for years and volunteered to raise money for Veterans and donate their time to help cook, sell poppies, and make baskets.

United States Army Sergeant Sean Dylan Ahern is survived by his wife, Lindsay, and their beautiful children, Molly, Madeleine, Margaret, and John.

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