We Honor and Remember:
Chief Warrant Officer John A. Quinlan
Hometown: Morristown, New Jersey, U.S. Age: 36 years old. Died: February 18, 2007 in Operation Enduring Freedom. Unit: Army, 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment, Fort Campbell, KY. Birth: Feb. 26, 1970, USA. Chief Warrant Officer 3 John A. Quinlan, 36, of New Jersey; assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Airborne), Fort Campbell, Ky.; died Feb. 18 in southeastern Afghanistan when the Chinook helicopter he was in crashed. Burial: Arlington National Cemetery Arlington, Arlington County, Virginia, USA Plot: Sec 60 Site 8538 |
CHIEF WARRANT OFFICER 3 JOHN A. QUINLAN, of Clarksville, Tenn., whose parents, Robert and Kathleen Quinlan,reside in BRADLEY BEACH, was killed when his MH-47E Chinook helicopter crashed in southeastern Afghanistan on Sunday, Feb. 18, while conducting operations in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. He died doing what he loved, serving our country in Afghanistan as a Special Operations "Nightstalker" Chinook helicopter pilot.
Chief Warrant Officer 3 Quinlan was assigned to B Company, 2nd Battalion, 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment, Fort Campbell, Ky. During his 18-year military career, he served his nation in every major conflict since 1990 - including five deployments in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan, two deployments in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, a tour in Somalia, and service in Operation Desert Storm. He was featured during 2002 on an NBC Nightline program about the "first wave" of Operation Anaconda.
Chief Warrant Officer 3 Quinlan was born in Morristown in 1970, was raised in Phoenix, Md., and spent summers as a youth with his parents and family in Bradley Beach. He graduated from Dulaney High School in Baltimore County, Md., in 1988, and enlisted in the Marine Corps immediately thereafter. Following Marine Corps boot camp, he was trained as an avionics specialist on Harrier jump jets and became a loadmaster for the C-130 Hercules cargo plane. After his first 10 years of military service, he left the Marines when he was commissioned as an Army warrant officer. Chief Warrant Officer 3 Quinlan then trained as a Chinook helicopter pilot at Fort Rucker, Ala., and later transferred to the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment at Fort Campbell as an instructor pilot.
He loved all things Irish and his antique Toyota Landcruiser, and was a wonderful, devoted and loving husband, father, son, brother, and uncle. He served his nation for 18 years and spent the last four of those flying with his fellow Night Stalkers and supporting Special Operations forces. John was a strong man and had a firm sense of justice. He believed in his mission and stood up for what he knew was right. We were so lucky to have him for 36-plus years.
He leaves behind a beautiful family, his wife, Julie of Clarksville, and their daughters, Keely, 10, Madeline, 8, and Erin, 3; his parents, Robert J. Quinlan (a retired Army major) and Kathleen Quinlan; his grandmother, Mary Quinlan; his sister and brother-in-law, Susan and Greg Ripke; and many nieces and nephews.
A true patriot throughout his life, Chief Warrant Officer 3 Quinlan will be laid to rest with full military honors in Arlington National Cemetery, Washington, D.C..
Chief Warrant Officer 3 Quinlan was assigned to B Company, 2nd Battalion, 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment, Fort Campbell, Ky. During his 18-year military career, he served his nation in every major conflict since 1990 - including five deployments in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan, two deployments in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, a tour in Somalia, and service in Operation Desert Storm. He was featured during 2002 on an NBC Nightline program about the "first wave" of Operation Anaconda.
Chief Warrant Officer 3 Quinlan was born in Morristown in 1970, was raised in Phoenix, Md., and spent summers as a youth with his parents and family in Bradley Beach. He graduated from Dulaney High School in Baltimore County, Md., in 1988, and enlisted in the Marine Corps immediately thereafter. Following Marine Corps boot camp, he was trained as an avionics specialist on Harrier jump jets and became a loadmaster for the C-130 Hercules cargo plane. After his first 10 years of military service, he left the Marines when he was commissioned as an Army warrant officer. Chief Warrant Officer 3 Quinlan then trained as a Chinook helicopter pilot at Fort Rucker, Ala., and later transferred to the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment at Fort Campbell as an instructor pilot.
He loved all things Irish and his antique Toyota Landcruiser, and was a wonderful, devoted and loving husband, father, son, brother, and uncle. He served his nation for 18 years and spent the last four of those flying with his fellow Night Stalkers and supporting Special Operations forces. John was a strong man and had a firm sense of justice. He believed in his mission and stood up for what he knew was right. We were so lucky to have him for 36-plus years.
He leaves behind a beautiful family, his wife, Julie of Clarksville, and their daughters, Keely, 10, Madeline, 8, and Erin, 3; his parents, Robert J. Quinlan (a retired Army major) and Kathleen Quinlan; his grandmother, Mary Quinlan; his sister and brother-in-law, Susan and Greg Ripke; and many nieces and nephews.
A true patriot throughout his life, Chief Warrant Officer 3 Quinlan will be laid to rest with full military honors in Arlington National Cemetery, Washington, D.C..
Among Chief Warrant Officer Quinlan's numerous medals and decorations are:
Distinguished Flying Cross (awarded for heroism or extraordinary achievement in an aerial flight), Meritorious Service Medal, 3 Air Medals for Valor, 4 Army Commendation Medals, Navy Commendation Medal, Navy Achievement Medal, Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Humanitarian Service Medal, Korea Defense Service Medal, (Saudi Arabia) Kuwait Liberation Medal, Overseas Service Ribbon, Joint Meritorious Unit Award. |
William J. Duffy - Bradley Beach, New Jersey.
On this date in 2007 ( 17 years ago ) Bradley Beach, New Jersey Fallen Hero Chief Warrant Officer 3 ( CW3 ) John Andrew Quinlan, Age 36, U.S. Marine Corps ( 1987-1997 ), U.S. Army ( 1997-2007), MOS- Chinook Helicopter Pilot, B Company, 2nd Battalion, 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment, “Died In Service”, in Afghanistan, in support of Operation Enduring Freedom ( OEF ).
Quinlan was born on 26 February 1970, in Morristown, New Jersey, with his parents being Robert and Kathleen Quinlan. Growing up in New Jersey, Delaware, and Maryland, Quinlan graduated from the Baltimore County High School, Class of 1987, and entered the U.S. Marine Corps shortly thereafter. In 1986, his parents purchased a home at #418 Monmouth Ave., Bradley Beach, NJ. Even though Quinlan grew up in Maryland, he considered the shore town of Bradley Beach his home.
Transferring to the U.S. Army on 24 September 1997, he was commissioned a Warrant Officer 1 ( WO1 ) on 26 November 1997, and received extensive training as a helicopter pilot. Serving in every war since 1990, which includes Desert Shield ( 1990-1991 ), Desert Storm ( 1991 ), Somalia ( 1993 ), Deployed to South Korea ( 1999-2000 ),War on Terrorism ( 2001-2007, 2 tours in Iraq, and 3 tours in Afghanistan ). This Leatherneck/Soldier served a lot for America.
On that fateful date, CWO 3 Quinlan was the “pilot in command”, as a Special Operations Nightstalker Chinook Helicopter Pilot, on a mission, flying in a formation of other aircraft, flying from Kandahar to Bagram, about 300 feet above the ground, with 22 military personnel aboard. Enroute, Quinlan reported engine problems, when the helicopter had a sudden loss of power and crashed, in East Afghanistan, Zabol Province. 14 of the 22 aboard were wounded and survived. 8 were killed, including Quinlan, who had planned to return home the next week, to spend his 37th birthday with his family.
After his death, both governors of New Jersey and Maryland, ordered American and state flags to be flown at half-staff in his memory.
On 27 February 2007, Quinlan was interred at Arlington National Cemetery in Section 60, Site 8538, with full military honors. He was survived by his grandmother, parents, wife, 3 daughters, and a sister. Over the course of his 20 years of service, he was awarded 20 medals and decorations.
“Time Will Not Dim The Glory Of Their Deeds”-Gen. John J. Pershing.
I and all of America, especially Bradley Beach, New Jersey, salute you Sir, Leatherneck and Soldier.
On this date in 2007 ( 17 years ago ) Bradley Beach, New Jersey Fallen Hero Chief Warrant Officer 3 ( CW3 ) John Andrew Quinlan, Age 36, U.S. Marine Corps ( 1987-1997 ), U.S. Army ( 1997-2007), MOS- Chinook Helicopter Pilot, B Company, 2nd Battalion, 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment, “Died In Service”, in Afghanistan, in support of Operation Enduring Freedom ( OEF ).
Quinlan was born on 26 February 1970, in Morristown, New Jersey, with his parents being Robert and Kathleen Quinlan. Growing up in New Jersey, Delaware, and Maryland, Quinlan graduated from the Baltimore County High School, Class of 1987, and entered the U.S. Marine Corps shortly thereafter. In 1986, his parents purchased a home at #418 Monmouth Ave., Bradley Beach, NJ. Even though Quinlan grew up in Maryland, he considered the shore town of Bradley Beach his home.
Transferring to the U.S. Army on 24 September 1997, he was commissioned a Warrant Officer 1 ( WO1 ) on 26 November 1997, and received extensive training as a helicopter pilot. Serving in every war since 1990, which includes Desert Shield ( 1990-1991 ), Desert Storm ( 1991 ), Somalia ( 1993 ), Deployed to South Korea ( 1999-2000 ),War on Terrorism ( 2001-2007, 2 tours in Iraq, and 3 tours in Afghanistan ). This Leatherneck/Soldier served a lot for America.
On that fateful date, CWO 3 Quinlan was the “pilot in command”, as a Special Operations Nightstalker Chinook Helicopter Pilot, on a mission, flying in a formation of other aircraft, flying from Kandahar to Bagram, about 300 feet above the ground, with 22 military personnel aboard. Enroute, Quinlan reported engine problems, when the helicopter had a sudden loss of power and crashed, in East Afghanistan, Zabol Province. 14 of the 22 aboard were wounded and survived. 8 were killed, including Quinlan, who had planned to return home the next week, to spend his 37th birthday with his family.
After his death, both governors of New Jersey and Maryland, ordered American and state flags to be flown at half-staff in his memory.
On 27 February 2007, Quinlan was interred at Arlington National Cemetery in Section 60, Site 8538, with full military honors. He was survived by his grandmother, parents, wife, 3 daughters, and a sister. Over the course of his 20 years of service, he was awarded 20 medals and decorations.
“Time Will Not Dim The Glory Of Their Deeds”-Gen. John J. Pershing.
I and all of America, especially Bradley Beach, New Jersey, salute you Sir, Leatherneck and Soldier.
New Jersey Run for the Fallen 2024 ~ Click on photos below to enlarge...
New Jersey Run for the Fallen 2023 ~ Click on photos below to enlarge...
New Jersey Run for the Fallen 2022
Kathleen Teresa (nee Philbin) Quinlan made her transition to heaven, Friday, April 12th at her home in Bradley Beach. She was born March 5, 1944 in Caldwell New Jersey to Patrick and Louise Philbin. Kathleen held a masters degree from Loyola College in Maryland and taught elementary school for many years going on to become a much beloved guidance counselor. Her last position from which she retired 3 years ago was with Asbury Park Middle School. Kate was an extraordinary person who cared for and touched so many children on her path. Her light & legacy is immeasurable. She lost her only son CW3 John A. Quinlan, A Special Operations helicopter pilot, 6 years ago in the war in Afghanistan. Through it all Kate was the definition of strength & grace. Despite her pain and grief, she lived with gratitude and used her energy for good by connecting with & supporting other grieving families of lost soldiers. Kate loved her family, East End Avenue beach, cooking large delicious meals and sitting on her front porch in Bradley Beach. She had a kind and generous heart, once you met her you could not forget her. She treasured her role as a grandmother earning the nickname "Golly" that suited her so well that eventually everyone called her Golly! She showed us how to live by her example and we will carry that forward to honor her memory. We take some peace in knowing she is reunited in heaven with her son, who loved her so.
Kate is survived by her husband Robert Quinlan, daughter and son in law Susan and Greg Ripke, sisters Alice & Anne, and her grandchildren Keely, Olivia, Maddie, Erin, William and JAQ, who she loved beyond measure. Also survived by her great friends the Reillys, Julie Golden, the Farrells, the Edwards and her special neighbors, Helene & Rachel whom she adored.
Kate is survived by her husband Robert Quinlan, daughter and son in law Susan and Greg Ripke, sisters Alice & Anne, and her grandchildren Keely, Olivia, Maddie, Erin, William and JAQ, who she loved beyond measure. Also survived by her great friends the Reillys, Julie Golden, the Farrells, the Edwards and her special neighbors, Helene & Rachel whom she adored.
GSF Robert Quinlan
Bradley Beach - Robert Joseph Quinlan entered into eternal rest on Monday, July 19th at Meridian Health, Manor by The Sea, Ocean Grove from complications of leukemia. Bob was born on August 10th, 1938 in Newark, New Jersey, raised in Bloomfield, NJ and spent every summer in Avon by the Sea since 1942. Parents were Robert & Mary Quinlan of Bloomfield, NJ and Avon By The Sea, NJ.
Robert is predeceased by his wife Kate, his son John and his brothers Roger and Richard. He leaves behind his daughter Susan Ripke, son in law Greg, and 6 grandchildren whom he adored, Keely, Olivia, Maddie, Erin, Will & Jaq. Also survived by his devoted brother Larry, sisters Linda, Marlene, nieces & nephews and many friends and neighbors.
Bob graduated from Newark College of Engineering with a degree in Mechanical Engineering, he went on to receive his MBA from Rutgers. He had an accomplished career in Engineering and large-scale engineering project management. He also served 24 years in the US Army Reserves and retired as a Major. Bob lived with his family in NJ, Delaware, Maryland, Rhode Island & Virginia over the years, but ultimately made his way back to the Jersey Shore full time to his summer home for retirement. In retirement he was an active member of the Bradley Beach Planning & Zoning Board and The Friendly Sons of the Shillelagh, Belmar chapter and loved to drive his convertible in the Belmar St. Patrick's parade with his grandsons in tow. Bob loved East End Avenue Beach in Avon by the Sea, where everyone knew his name and could count on him for a corny "dad joke". He spent decades there pushing his kids, nieces, nephews and grandchildren in the tube over the big waves, he was an avid train collector, an Irishman to the core and he loved his 1957 Red Chevy Belair convertible. He was a professional relaxer and spent much time in his hammock on his front porch in Bradley Beach.
Bob's loss is a big one for his family and friends, but we hold on to many wonderful, funny & treasured memories, his absolute love of life and family. He had 82 wonderful, love filled years and we should all be so lucky.
A gathering of family and friends will be held on Monday, July 26, 2021 at the Church of the Ascension, 501 Brinley Ave, Bradley Beach, NJ 07720 from 11:00am to 11:30am. A funeral mass will be held 11:30am on Monday, July 26 at the church followed by burial at Brigadier General William C. Doyle Memorial Cemetery located on 350 Province Line Rd, Wrightstown, NJ 08562.
In lieu of flowers please make a donation in Bobs name to NJ Run for the Fallen ( https://www.njrunforthefallen.org/) or The Friendly Sons of the Shillelagh, Belmar chapter ( https://www.friendlysonsoftheshillelagh.com/).
We truly miss Bob - he has been such a wonderful Supporter of our Mission and we send our heartfelt condolences to Bob's Family and Friends, Rest in Peace Gold Star Father Robert Quinlan....
Bradley Beach - Robert Joseph Quinlan entered into eternal rest on Monday, July 19th at Meridian Health, Manor by The Sea, Ocean Grove from complications of leukemia. Bob was born on August 10th, 1938 in Newark, New Jersey, raised in Bloomfield, NJ and spent every summer in Avon by the Sea since 1942. Parents were Robert & Mary Quinlan of Bloomfield, NJ and Avon By The Sea, NJ.
Robert is predeceased by his wife Kate, his son John and his brothers Roger and Richard. He leaves behind his daughter Susan Ripke, son in law Greg, and 6 grandchildren whom he adored, Keely, Olivia, Maddie, Erin, Will & Jaq. Also survived by his devoted brother Larry, sisters Linda, Marlene, nieces & nephews and many friends and neighbors.
Bob graduated from Newark College of Engineering with a degree in Mechanical Engineering, he went on to receive his MBA from Rutgers. He had an accomplished career in Engineering and large-scale engineering project management. He also served 24 years in the US Army Reserves and retired as a Major. Bob lived with his family in NJ, Delaware, Maryland, Rhode Island & Virginia over the years, but ultimately made his way back to the Jersey Shore full time to his summer home for retirement. In retirement he was an active member of the Bradley Beach Planning & Zoning Board and The Friendly Sons of the Shillelagh, Belmar chapter and loved to drive his convertible in the Belmar St. Patrick's parade with his grandsons in tow. Bob loved East End Avenue Beach in Avon by the Sea, where everyone knew his name and could count on him for a corny "dad joke". He spent decades there pushing his kids, nieces, nephews and grandchildren in the tube over the big waves, he was an avid train collector, an Irishman to the core and he loved his 1957 Red Chevy Belair convertible. He was a professional relaxer and spent much time in his hammock on his front porch in Bradley Beach.
Bob's loss is a big one for his family and friends, but we hold on to many wonderful, funny & treasured memories, his absolute love of life and family. He had 82 wonderful, love filled years and we should all be so lucky.
A gathering of family and friends will be held on Monday, July 26, 2021 at the Church of the Ascension, 501 Brinley Ave, Bradley Beach, NJ 07720 from 11:00am to 11:30am. A funeral mass will be held 11:30am on Monday, July 26 at the church followed by burial at Brigadier General William C. Doyle Memorial Cemetery located on 350 Province Line Rd, Wrightstown, NJ 08562.
In lieu of flowers please make a donation in Bobs name to NJ Run for the Fallen ( https://www.njrunforthefallen.org/) or The Friendly Sons of the Shillelagh, Belmar chapter ( https://www.friendlysonsoftheshillelagh.com/).
We truly miss Bob - he has been such a wonderful Supporter of our Mission and we send our heartfelt condolences to Bob's Family and Friends, Rest in Peace Gold Star Father Robert Quinlan....