U.S. Army Black Hawk Pilot Ryan O'Hara Remembered as a Dedicated Soldier and Loving Father

Ryan O'Hara, a U.S. Army Black Hawk pilot, tragically lost his life in a helicopter crash that collided with an American Airlines passenger jet over Washington, D.C. His father, Gary O'Hara, shared his grief and memories of his son in an emotional interview.

Gary described Ryan's passion for flying, particularly over the nation's capital. He recalled Ryan sending him photos of Washington's monuments at night, expressing his admiration for the city's beauty. Ryan never voiced any concerns about the risks of flying in the crowded airspace.

The crash unfolded before a national audience, adding to the family's anguish. Gary expressed his frustration with attempts to politicize the tragedy, emphasizing that all soldiers in the Army, including Ryan, earned their positions through merit and rigorous training.

Ryan's journey began in the Atlanta area, where he joined his high school's ROTC program. He enlisted at 18, drawn to the Army's opportunity to work on Black Hawk helicopters. After serving in Afghanistan, he was stationed at Fort Belvoir in Virginia, where he lived with his wife and young son.

Gary's initial relief at Ryan's stateside assignment turned to worry after the crash. He instinctively felt it involved his son, despite the numerous Black Hawks operating in the area. The confirmation came with a knock on the door from two Army soldiers, shattering the family's hopes.

Gary views the accident as a tragic coincidence, a matter of seconds that could have prevented the disaster. He remembers his son as a skilled and dedicated pilot who loved his family and his country.