Sgt. John Coughlin

Fallen at the World Trade Center
September 11, 2001

Sergeant John G. Coughlin, 43, was appointed to the Housing Police Department on January 5, 1983, and began his career on patrol in Police Service Area 8. A veteran of the United States Marine Corps, he was promoted to sergeant in September 1988, and assigned to ESU 4 in May 1995.

An avid sports fan, Sgt. Coughlin, who loved the Mets and the Jets, was often teased by his three daughters, all of whom are Yankees and Giants fans.

Thirteen months before his death, he had responded to the home of Police Commissioner Bernard B. Kerik whose infant daughter had choked on some food. After being informed of the situation and racing home, the Commissioner was greatly relieved to find his daughter safe and sound, laughing and playing in Sgt. Coughlin's burly arms.

Sergeant Coughlin is survived by his wife Patricia; children Erin, Kayla and Tara; mother Mary; and brother George.