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Sgt. John Gerard Coughlin
Sgt. John Gerard Coughlin
Obituary
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John Coughlin Obituary
John G. Coughlin was a giving man, and that kept him very busy.
Sergeant Coughlin, 43, was with the emergency services unit of the New York Police Department. In his spare time, he was a volunteer firefighter in Pomona, N.Y., where he lived with his family. "He was always on the go," said his wife, Patricia Coughlin.
He was good at spoiling his three daughters, Erin, 16, Tara, 13, and Kayla, 6. He took them parasailing, white-water rafting and to amusement parks. He took them to baseball games, but there was a slight complication. He was a Mets fan and all three girls are Yankees fans — Mrs. Coughlin is neutral — and so they went to both stadiums. When the Yankees played the Mets in the World Series, well, that got a little tense.
A former Marine, Sergeant Coughlin was active in the Rockland County detachment of the Marine Corps League, helping older veterans and doing honor guard duty at funerals. "He loved that," his wife said. "Once a Marine, always a Marine."
One of his favorite times was the middle of December, when he would take a week's vacation to work on the Marine Toys for Tots Program. "He was a firm believer that every kid should have a toy for Christmas," Mrs. Coughlin said.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Del Newberry
October 18, 2021
Pausing today to pray for Patricia and the 3 girls. None of us will ever forget that horrible day when you lost your husband and Dad. We will never forget and will always think of the many families affected by this tragedy. Much love from Texas
September 12, 2021
Rest in Peace my friend, Never forgotten, forever loved..Semper Fi Sarge...Brian C
Madeline Barnes
September 11, 2021
I wear his memorial bracelet. My dad was Nypd too. He would hVe been there too but he retired years before. God bless this family
Pamela Nevarez-Fisher
September 11, 2021
I have had Sgt. Coughlin's memorial bracelet since 2001. I have been wearing it all week in remembrance. God Bless his family.
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Cindy Roe
September 5, 2021
Remembering John on the 20th anniversary of 9/11...
Karen McHugh
September 11, 2017
We did not know Sgt. Coughlin. This weekend we went to the Healing Field Memorial in Oak Brook IL. While walking through the memorial we saw John's flag, read his card and felt purchasing the flag in his honor would be a tribute to him and all that were lost on the fateful day.
Thank you for your service. You will not be forgotten. Your flag will fly with honor at our home. We offer prayers to your family.
Justin Kopp
September 12, 2012
Thank you John.
Steven Scovil
September 11, 2012
Just found this site today and wanted to say the world is a less place with John gone. I served with him in the Marines at MCB 29 Palms, Calif. His name is on my desk along with Matt Garvey's name who also died on that fateful day. I will always remember this day as my WW2 veteran father remembered Sunday Dec. 7th.
January 4, 2012
Patty, I used to work with you @ EHA and have been trying to reach you. Please email me @ [email protected]. Thanks, Pat.
October 5, 2011
Still wearing my memorial bracelet with John's name each and every anniversary.
May God bless the Coughlin family.
Bob Mueller, Alta Loma, CA
Justin Kopp
September 12, 2011
Thank you for your service. We will never forget.
Brian C
September 11, 2011
Semper Fi Sarge.....never forgotten
john coughlin
September 11, 2011
hi my name is also john coughlin from iron mountain mi. i saw your sons story on fox pre game and i i aws wondering if there was a way to get a hat like johns dad had on.it would be a honor to wear one with a name we both share. thank you for your time. my eamail is [email protected]
September 10, 2011
John, it was always the best of tours when we worked together. God bless you and Vinny.
Mike McFadden..
Glen Roche
September 6, 2011
<3 u Coughlin Ladies :)
Diana Pecoraro
September 5, 2011
You will always live in our hearts and prayers.
Mary Looby
September 5, 2011
I love you Patty, Erin, Tara and Kayla and I know you all miss him. My heart goes out to you and to everyone who knew him, loved him and misses him.
Jon Slayton
August 14, 2011
I also have worn and still do, since 2001 a memorial bracelet with Sgt. Coughlin name. I will wear it also until it breaks!! Thank you sir for your service and sacrifice. My prayers to you and your family.
Deborah Foulkes
March 9, 2011
Thanks for your service, always
Margaret Irizarry
March 3, 2011
Will always be remembered.
Kimberly Weed
January 20, 2010
I have worn Sgt. John Gerald Coughlin bracelet since shortly after 9/11. I was a Federal US Marshal at the time. I have never taken the bracelet off until it broke in two yesterday. Three births, 2 surgeries, and many years have passed and it never came off my arm, it was part of who I was. I feel naked now that its off but I am hoping that it was a sign to tell me he was at peace.
PETE SCHEMBRI
September 29, 2009
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Carrie Nolan- Regan
September 11, 2009
In our thoughts & prayers...
Bob Mueller LASD, Det. Sgt. (Ret'd)
September 15, 2008
I wore the John Coughlin legacy memorial bracelet this week to honor his memory and that of the other fine men and women of NYPD and NYFD who made the ultimate sacrifice. I also prayed that God would grant peace to the family and friends of Sgt. Coughlin.
Let us never forget...
Bette
September 11, 2008
Always remembered
KW
September 11, 2008
You are not forgotten....
Justin Kopp
June 20, 2008
You are still remembered. God Bless
Doug Abraham
November 17, 2007
Happy Birthday!!!
Karen Feldman
October 17, 2007
God Bless You & Your Family.
Kristine
October 30, 2006
As I cross-stitched your name on the memorial that I am doing for all of the victims, I prayed for you and your family. Please know that your death was not in vain. We will always remember. God Bless.
P Tabbernor
September 15, 2006
In memory....
Evelyn B
September 15, 2006
Thank you for your courage and bravery. To the surviving family and friends, you are always in my prayers. I am sure he is watching over his precious little girls and loving wife. God Bless!
Natalie Trott
September 11, 2006
Any man who would take a week's vacation to work on Toys For Tots must have been a saint walking among us.
My prayers to Sgt. Coughlin's family and friends. 5 years later, I'm sure the loss is still heavy. Bless you all.
john malloy
September 10, 2006
Thinking of the Coughlin & Looby Families on this sad anniversary.
God Bless.
John Mal
James Johnson
September 11, 2005
God Bless You...
Richard Verde
September 11, 2005
To John's family. He was a Man among Men. One of the finest cops I ever worked with. He was always there when you called. His "Lads" could always count on John. He will be remembered always.
sherrie breeden
January 27, 2005
God bless and may you rest in peace, this world is a much emptier place now but I'm sure you are still very much a hero in god's arms
August Elia
June 17, 2004
To the Coughlin Family, My name is August Elia. I work for the Bergen County Sheriff's Department. I worked with John many years ago when he was a member of our department. I remember him as a dedicated worker always willing to do more than was expected of him. For this and many other reasons I will never forget him. God Bless you all.
Sonia B.
April 6, 2004
To the Coughlin Family,
Sgt. John Coughlin and I worked in the same area during those wonderful PSA5 days. During the first stages of the merger, I took off to a Federal position. I really didn't know him as well as like my husband Jim. Jim always shares his fond memories of John and your family with me. I remember John as being very polite and a gentleman. I just wanted to say that my prayers are with you and your family always...
Jim McAleer
October 7, 2003
To The Coughlin Family,
John's massive build suited him well for the physical needs of the police department and the marines. His common sense and compassion was evident at work and I'm sure at home. His loss at the department was huge but his loss to the family is unmanagible. From one of his lad's.
Sean Kelly
September 12, 2003
Patty,Erin,Tara and Kalyla,
It's been some time and I thought it was time to say some things about Jonh.When I think of him,it is always a sad thing but the big lug brings a smile to my face.It was a genuine honor to work with and be John's friend.Nothing I can say will bring back.I can only share this with you.When John and I were working,not a day went by without him talking about you guys,you were his life.Godbless you all.
All my love
Sean
Justin Kopp
September 12, 2003
To the Family of John Coughlin,
Although I never knew John personally, I was fortunate enough to be enlightened of his remarkable character by his sister, Noreen, and the rest of the Sundell family. I remember being told incredible stories about his Marine and SWAT training. I remember the SWAT t-shirt he gave his nephew Chris, one of my best friends from high school. Today, I am currently in the process of completing my police academy training and one day hope to join the NYPD. The way John lived his life and served the force has truly been an inspriration to me in my quest to become a police officer. I will never forget the stories I was told and I will never forget Sgt. John Gerard Coughlin.
To John's entire family:
You are all in my constant thoughts and prayers. To the Sundell's, thank you for the memories of John. Fargo has not forgotten about your family.
September 11, 2003
Patty
As we walked together today through the Winter Garden hurring to our own separate ways, just being with you for a few brief moments reminded me of how much comfort you have been to me.
Edward Quinn
September 11, 2003
You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. Watch over us.
God bless
Stephen Quinn
September 11, 2003
John,
God Bless you in Heaven today. Your picture is displayed on my tribute at home and I can only say I was so very proud to have known you.
Your Irish eyes will always smile.
ALWAYS remembered and NEVER forgotten.
Steve Quinn
Lauren Bosi
September 11, 2003
My thoughts and prayers to you and your family and the other victims of 9/11 on this very difficult day. May God watch over you today and everyday.
God Bless.
John Malloy
September 11, 2003
To The Coughlin and Looby Family:
The entire Malloy Family is thinking of you today & always.
September 10, 2003
John, you sound like a remarkable man. All the volunteer work you did, it's amazing how some people care that much. The world has become a better place because of you. God bless you and your family!
Al Hess
September 7, 2003
John, you were a childhood friend, and a fellow Cub Scout in my mother's Den 6. We lost touch after graduation, but it doesn't surprise me that you became a Police Officer, and that you are a hero. I am a volunteer EMT, and I also responded that day, and stood by at Giants Stadium waiting in vain for the injured victims to arrive. Tomorrow I will attend the ceremony dedicating a football field in our home town of Cresskill in your name. I still cry when I remember the events of that day, and I cry also for your family who lost their own personal hero. Watch over us all from above, we who serve. God bless you, my old friend.
January 25, 2003
I thought I saw your face today,
in the sparkle of the morning sun.
And then I heard the angel say,
Their work on earth is done.
I thought I heard your voice today,
then laugh your hearty laugh.
And then I heard the angel say,
There's peace dear one at last.
I thought I felt your touch today,
in the breeze that rustled by.
And then I heard the angel say,
The spirit never dies.
I thought I saw my broken heart,
in the crescent of the moon.
And then I heard the angel say,
The Lord is coming soon.
I thought that I would miss you so,
and never find my way.
And then I heard the angel say,
They're with you every day.
The sun, the wind, the moon, the stars,
will forever be around,
reminding you of the love you shared,
and the peace they've finally found.
POP
January 18, 2003
John was a jovial, friendly giant with a big heart. May he rest in peace, and may the family: Patty, Erin, Tara, Kayla, find healing and consolation through their friends and faith.
Robin Lopez
January 2, 2003
I am a special education teacher in Brooklyn, NY. September 11, 2001 will be a constant memory for me. Through a website I was able to obtain a bracelet in remembrance of someone who had lost their life in the WTC. I chose the NYPD and asked for a name at random. Sgt. John Gerard Coughlin was the name chosen for me. I didn't know him personally and yet I wear his name with pride and honor. He gave his life to save others. To his family and friends: He will never be forgotten. May God Bless you!
Detective Ken Grubbs
September 13, 2002
I have NYPD missing in action ID tag with John's name on it. I have it on my chain with my cross, of over 30 years. I just retired from our police department after serving 28 years. John is with the Lord now.And may the Lord bless you and yours.
Detective Ken Grubbs Cambridge Ohio
Alison Nelson
September 13, 2002
Dear Patty,
I was a classmate of John's at Cresskill High School. I have fond memories of him as a very friendly (and funny!) guy. Please accept my deepest sympathies on your loss. If you or your daughters ever come to the Chicago area, I'd be so happy to be of assistance in any way. God Bless You!
Stacy Smith
September 13, 2002
I am a friend from our school days in Cresskill, NJ. I would like to extend my deepest sympathy to Patty, the Girls, and all of John's family and friends. Everyone's whose life John ever touched will miss him greatly and He will always be remembered as our Hero.
ANTHONY CAFIERO
September 13, 2002
Recalling fond memories of growing up in Cresskill with John. We think of him and his family often and have warm recollections of our earlier days in high school.
Debbie Tyson (McKinney)
September 13, 2002
I was so sad to hear about my former classmate, John,that died at the WTC.I,ve been out of touch and just found out (09/13/02).My thoughts and prayers go out to John's family and friends.God bless you John.
Beth Coughlin-Coso
September 11, 2002
On this the 1st anniversary of that horrible day, I was reading tributes to some of the people that lost their lives. John's caught my eye because we share the same last name, Coughlin is my maiden name. My father was also a police officer, he is now retired. My thoughts and prayers will be with your family.
Carrie Nolan
September 11, 2002
To the Coughlin Girls:
I just wanted to let you know that I am thinking about you girls.. I remember your dad dressing up as Santa at the ESU 4 christmas parties, and him being around at picnics and stuff. It was obvious to everyone that he loved life and you girls...
Love
Carrie
Chris Engel
September 11, 2002
It has been nearly twenty years since I last saw Johnny and I was so saddened to hear from friends in Cresskill about his loss. I remember John as a fun loving, gregarious guy who always maintained an upbeat attitude and a smile on his face. My family's prayers go out to you and the children. God Bless Johnny for giving his life in an effort to save others. He is truly a hero.
SeanLean & Jade-Lin
September 9, 2002
Dearest Patty, Erin, Tara and Kayla,
It's been almost a year now and I still the right words don't come my way.
I have the pixs of John, you and the girls. I still remember his hardy laugh, contagious smile and just all around gentle giant.
How many Italian-American dinners did we have under our belt Patty? And you had to do it 3 times in one week LOL.
We hold you near and dear to our hearts and Jade-Lin wanted you to know that earth has no sorrow that heaven can't heal.
our love all-ways,
SeanLean & Jade-Lin Chue
([email protected])
Shelly Redding
September 9, 2002
Dear Mr. Coughlin,
As the anniversary of the most horrible act of terrorism in the world nears, I am deeply saddened by the loss of so many courageous Americans.
Not long after the tragedy, I had an opportunity to obtain a bracelet to wear with the name of a victim of 9/11 engraved on it. I asked to be given the name of a random selection.
I was extremely pleased to receive a bracelet with the name Sgt. John Gerard Coughlin, NYPD, ESS-4.
Since the first of October 2001, I have worn this bracelet every day. I do not need the bracelet to remind me of your heroism. I need the bracelet to remind me that I am extremely lucky and not to take anything for granted. I will continue to wear you name and remember your sacrifice.
God Bless You and your family.
Jen Bender
September 8, 2002
Dear Patty,Erin, Tara,and Kayla,
I'm so sorry this happend to you. I am proud to say I knew John. I think of him and you guys all the time! I wish I could take away your pain, or do something for you all. I will always be here for you no matter what happens.
Love always,
Jen Bender
Marissa
September 7, 2002
I am sorry for your loss. I Remember meeting him and talking to him he was a really amazing person. My deepest sympathys.
Sean Coughlin
August 23, 2002
You are a hero, a true hero, and I will never forget you. From one brother to another.
George P. Wilcha
August 11, 2002
Dear Mrs Coughlin and Family,
I knew John from the local Marine Corps League Chapter. We shared many stories about the Corps and our law enforcement agencies. John was every meaning of the word Gentleman, and was dedicated to God, Country, Corps, NYPD, and Family. May God bless you and John.
Semper Fidelis my Friend.
Susan Cozby
June 25, 2002
Dear Mrs. Coughlin,
I am writing to let you know I bear your husbands name daily on the mercy band I recieved with his name on it. I myself have a 7 year old daughter that has a wonderful father. It has taken me this long to look up John Gerard Coughlin to read about what kind of man he was. I want you to know I wear this bracelet every day my thoughts and prayers are always with you and your girls and I will keep bearing his name daily always. Susan K. Cozby
R and R Lawrie
May 28, 2002
tears roll down my checks as I read the Twin Towers Tribute. We live on the other side of the world, my husband is a retired Police Office. Our thoughts are with you and all families affected by this tragedy. R&R Lawrie, New Zealand
Barbara Smith-Anderson
May 15, 2002
Dear Patty,
I lived in the apartment above you in Country Club in Pomona. I am deeply sorry for your loss. I wasn't aware that John was lost that terrible day in September. I wish you and your girls the very best in life. John was a decent, warm and good hearted family man. I wish you and the girls the very best in life. God Bless him.
Laini
May 1, 2002
To the family of John Coughlin,
I'm writing to you because I have a Mercy B.A.N.D. bracelet that has the name of your family member, John Coughlin. I can't tell you how sorry I am that John died during rescue efforts at the Twin Towers. I won't ever know what you have
been through.
I don't know much about John, but I do know that he has three children and believe it or not I am one of three children in my family. Every time I look at the bracelet around my wrist it reminds me of the day of the tragedy on September 11, 2001 and John Coughlin.
When I saw the policemen rushing into the Twin Towers after the attacks, I knew lives were lost and saved. Some were saved by your family member and I will never forget that day he died and I pray for him and you.
I hope that other people who also got a Mercy B.A.N.D bracelet that has your family member's name engraved in it, will pray for you and him too.
I hope that this doesn't make you have any bad memories or bad dreams. If it's okay I would like to here what you think about the tragedy on 9-11-01 or just a plain letter. You can e-mail me at my teacher's address: [email protected].
Sincerely your friend,
Laini
Fourth Grade
Heartland Community Schools Henderson,NE 68371
[email protected]
Sherry Mash
April 26, 2002
Dear Coughlin Family: My father (a retired police Sgt. in Tennessee) and my husband are both police officers. I visited the Mercy Band website and selected your husband's name. I will proudly wear this band and remember what a kind husband and father he was, as well as a hero to us all. I will always remember you in my thoughts and prayers. As a police officer wife and daughter, I truly understand!!
Angie Campbell
April 23, 2002
**********God Bless You**********
John Malloy
April 18, 2002
To the Coughlin and Looby familes,
I knew John in high school, and went to school with the Looby family as well. The most vivid memories I have was John's sense of humor. He was alway's making us laugh, and was just a great person to be around. Being from Cresskill, we all knew someone that worked in or around the WTC. I was in constant contact with friends, dreading any bad news. When it did come, it was extremely sad, however, if there is any comfort at all, it was the fact that John lost his life saving others. I am so proud of John for that action. My deepest prayers and thoughts for you Patty, Erin, Tara, Kayla and all of your family.
John Malloy-Cresskill High School Class of 1978
Jose Guerra
April 2, 2002
I knew John since we joined Emergency Service together, and there isn't a day that passes that I don't think of him and the our warriors we lost on that day. God bless you John and your family.
EMMY PENA
March 12, 2002
I WORKED WITH SGT. COUGHLIN IN PSA #5. HE LOOKED BRUTAL BUT WAS A BIG TEDDY BEAR.JUST DON'T DO SOMETHING STUPID TO MAKE HIM REALLY ANGRY. IT TOOK A LOT BUT IF HE WAS ANGRY YOU KNEW YOU MESSED UP. I ONLY WANT HIS FAMILY TO KNOW THE DEPT. AND THE WORLD LOST A BEAUTIFUL PERSON. GOD BLESS AND WE ALL KNOW HE'S HELPING OUT IN HEAVEN.
Kymberli Disanza-Bowen
March 12, 2002
To the Coughlin Family:
I can never forget John Coughlin. He was my very first Sgt. out of the police academy.....He was such a jolly happy man that loved being in charge of the "rookies" and watching over us and protecting us...He also loved being married to Patty and at the time being the father of his two daughters (now there are three). He was definitely a positive role model and father/friend....He acted as if he was our father when we were in training...He was always very sincere. It is devastating and shocking that he has left this legacy behind, but as long as he was working there was only one place he would have been on 9/11. Right where he was when the building collapsed....There...Helping...
Saving...Protecting...EVERYONE there. God Bless you and your entire family....Love, kym bowen(gouda)
Nancy Moro
March 11, 2002
Dear Patty & Girls:
Words cannot express how my husband, Pete, and I felt upon hearing the news. Having both known John and my husband also being a retired NYPD officer, we were devastated. I have fond memories of John coaching (along with Tim Galvin) my son, Kevin, in the Just for Fun baseball league many years ago. That's exactly how John made the experience - just for fun. As the team mother, I watched my son have a first-time great experience in baseball! I remember waiting with John and about 15 4 year olds to march in the Memorial Day parade. It felt like hours waiting there but John made it fun for the kids and myself. The only thing we were worried about was making it home to watch the Knicks v. Bulls playoff game! Recently Kevin wrote about John for a school project and how he was his hero. He is even far more than that and will never be forgotten. Our thoughts and prayers are with you always.
Jeff Coughlin
March 4, 2002
Dear Mrs. Coughlin and girls I did not know john but I wish that i could bring him back to you because I know how much I love my wife and children I am certain he loves you and you he just as much. May God keep you and bless you all untill you are reunited.
A Friend
February 23, 2002
A mountain of a man whose heart truly was as big as himself. A man of many talents: Marine, Firefighter, Santa’s helper at more than one Verlin Christmas Party and always involved in the Toys for Tots Campaign, Chauffer for children coming to the United States to escape for a summer the violence of Northern Ireland. With endless energy he did in too short a time all that God asked him to do and was called home early.
A FRIEND
February 18, 2002
YOU ARE A HERO IN MY BOOK! AND YOU ARE ONE OF NEW YORK'S FINEST IN EVERY SENSE OF THE WORD.
GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY.
YOU MADE A DIFFERENCE IN MANY PEOPLE'S LIVES...I KNOW THIS FOR SURE.
Pamela Nevarez
February 12, 2002
To the family of Sgt. John Gerard Coughlin-I proudly wear Sgt. Coughlin's mercy band and send my sincerest condolences to all his family. I wore a POW bracelet in the '70's and my POW was one of the first group to be sent home. Such will not be the case with your cherished family member. Thank you is not enough; I'm sorry is not enough for someone so brave to be taken so suddenly and so cruelly. My thoughts, prayers,and mercy are with you daily.
carolyn iannone
February 6, 2002
Patty & Girls:
I live in Pomona and used to see you with your dad/husband at Mass at St. Boniface. I was so very devastated to learn of John's untimely passing. I'm glad there is this website to express my condolences because I just don't know else to tell you how very sorry I am for your loss. May God be with you today and always, as I know he is with John.
Peace.....
Shaun Pfund
January 26, 2002
I was fortunate enough to know John and his family in Cresskill, New Jersey, growing up. We came from a small town, but each of us including John had great expectations of what the future would hold for each one of us.
John was an outstanding athlete on the field and retained an outstanding sense of humor and wit off the field as well. John always had a hello and an open handshake for everyone who knew him.
Iw was with a great sense of pride that John entered the Police Department in New York City, when we would occassionally bump into one another on the street on patrol, John always had a smile and a story to tell.
In June of 2001, I had left New York and traveled to Sierra Vista to accept a position in Law enforcement. On that day of Days I was in the Phoenix Police Acadmey, when I saw the tradgey unfold like so many others.
A few days later, the sad news reached me, about John.
My class as a tribute to him and his family gave a moment of silence as I
attempted to describe to them the type of man, friend, and professional he was.
John you will be greatly missed, I will never forget you, and the times we shared together. May God in all hs mercy comfort you and keep your family within his loving embrace.
Police Officer & Friend
Shaun Pfund
Bob Cuddeback
January 17, 2002
I worked for John at Truck 4. He was a great boss to work for. I will miss him very much.
John M. Reilly
January 16, 2002
I first met John when we were members of the Housing Police Department in the 1980's. Over the years I got to know him better at PSA5 and at the St Patrick Day parties. Later on when I was a Duty Captain and responded to a job that required ESU I was always delighted if Big John was the ESU Supervisor because he knew his job and knew what needed to be done, andmore importantly he had the great Irish Wit and was able to see the humor in just about anything. We would always have a few laughs. Until it was time to go but not without the hero handshakes. John you were a true Irish American Hero and I am sure that St. Michael greeted you at Heavens gate with special handshake reserved just for you. Until we meet again may God hold you in the hollow of his hand. God Bless your family and may God Bless America.
Det. Diana Pecoraro
January 13, 2002
I will always remember John..He was part of MAP and always seeing him at Yankee games. He was one a sweetheart,a strongman with a big heart...
Great Cop; Great friend; Great family man and GREAT MAN....
God bless him and his family......
Tiffany Rock
January 6, 2002
I've been thinking about all the people who lost someone on September 11th. My prays goes out to you and your family. I think about everyone who lost a love one. I think about your husband because he put his life on the line to save those other people. I'll keep you and your family. God Bless you and your family.
Teresa Jahn
January 5, 2002
We thank John for dedicating his life to help others as a marine, a police officer and as a volunteer firefighter. Such a deep devotion to his fellow man reflects a heart full of courage, warm and love. We also thank him for the special care he gave to children in helping with the Christmas programs. May John's courage, life and love live on in those who love him and in those who have been touched by his life. May you always feel his love as you heart is radiated with his warmth. We are extrememly sorry for our nations loss of John. Our hearts cry deeply with you in America's loss of a hero.
America Cries
We see your sorrow-
and our hearts cry....
We can not erase your pain
but you do not have to face the anguish alone-for we-
-the American people-
are beside you.
We so desperately want to have the touch that brings you comfort,
the strength that gives you courage,
and the words to lighten your spirits.
And when we are left speechless
may the silence of our nation weave love into your hearts
to ease your sorrow.
May you find healing through our nation's strength as we-
-the American people-
face this difficult time together. Our hearts are with you. Teresa Jahn
Dixon, IL
david brink
January 4, 2002
sgt coughlin.when ever i flew to 4 you would say "how ya doin lad?"i miss your presence there and more importantly whos gonna take the "y "bar now??? no one can fill your shoes. esu handshakes all around lads!!!till we meet again....
Dan D'Allara
January 3, 2002
To Patty and the girls,
Times have never been so hard for all of us. We have been with you every step of the way. You are also in our prayers.
Some day when you read this message think of us. Our thoughts are with you and your family.
P.O. Melvin Gonzalez
January 2, 2002
Rest in peace my Brother
Anonymous
January 1, 2002
MAY THE LORD BLESS YOU SGT.JOHN
GERARD COUGHLIN AND MAY YOU REST IN
PEACE WITH GOD AND HIS ANGELS.GOD
BLESS YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS.GOD
BLESS AMERICA AND MAY WE NEVER FORGET 9/11/01
Devy Bert
December 31, 2001
I received a Mercy Band bracelet from my sister at Christmas time, with your husband's name on it. I have done research on the internet, trying to find information regarding your husband. I finally found this website, and I wanted to tell you I will wear this bracelet, very proudly. Your husband, and your childrens father, was a wonderful man. May God bless your family and watch over you.
Mike Davis
December 30, 2001
My wife bought me a braclet for Christmas with Sergeant Coughlin's name on it. I am a police Lieutenant in North Little Rock Arkansas; (yes, we do wear shoes!)
Seriously, I'm proud to wear the braclet and will tell all what I know about John. Each emeregency worker who lost their live in the Trade Center are TRUE heroes. Our family will continue to pray for your family in your time of sorrow. Remember; he will not be forgotten.
Chris Feeney(former Cresskill resident)
December 20, 2001
My sincerest condolances. He is a real hero. God bless you all.
Robert Mueller
December 16, 2001
I am wearing a Mercy Band with Sgt. John Coughlin's name on it. I will be remembering his family in my prayers, praying that God will comfort them and sustain them through this tragedy. "The policeman is sent by God to help you" -- Romans 13:4, The Living Bible.
Lucian Giordano
December 2, 2001
I am a childhood friend of Johnny, as we used to call him. I lived a few houses down on 10th Street in Cresskill, NJ where we grew up. I had lost touch after we moved across town, but heard the sad news from my mom who still lives in Cresskill. I'm very proud of him for giving his life to save others. I extend my sincerest condolences to his family, expecially the children.
Rosemary Lloyd
November 21, 2001
I am proud to wear a blue bracelet with Sgt Coughlin's name on it; to me, he and all who perished with him are real heroes. Please accept my condolences and also know that each Sunday at Mass, when the priest remembers those who have gone to their rest, I remember Sgt Coughlin. He's in heaven, with my mother, sharing stories. She died 10 years ago but it's nice to know Sgt Coughlin is there with her though it's sad to know he was taken so suddenly and cruelly.
Julie Palmer
November 10, 2001
I bought a mercy band with your husbands name on it. If you have not heard of them they are like the Vietnam MIA bands of the 70's. Proceed go to the victims. I was so touched on reading about your husband. I love kids and he sounds like he made many childern happy. I will be praying for your family. I think your husband sounds like a great man. I will be honored to wear his name on my wrist. God bless you and remnember we are praying for your family. Julie
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