SFC John Joseph Harrington Jr
31 May 1990 – 17 January 2023
Sergeant First Class John Joseph Harrington Jr., a cherished husband, father, son, uncle, brother, and friend, left an indelible mark on all who knew him. Born on May 31st, 1990, in Hartford, CT, and raised in East Berlin, he embodied a spirit of dedication and service from an early age. Joining the Army National Guard at 19, he served with distinction as an 11 Bravo in the 102nd Infantry Regiment, undertaking roles as diverse as combat medic and Army Flight Paramedic across deployments in Afghanistan and Iraq.
His commitment extended beyond the military; John was a beacon of support in the medical community, serving as an Emergency Medical Technician and later as a respected instructor for paramedic programs. His devotion to his wife Tessa and their children, Jack and Piper, was evident in every aspect of his life. Their bond, forged over eight years, was a testament to love, resilience, and shared dreams, often celebrated amidst laughter and cherished moments.
Tragically, John’s life was cut short, leaving behind a legacy of camaraderie, leadership, and unwavering dedication. He will forever be remembered for his infectious smile, his commitment to his fellow soldiers, and his profound impact on those fortunate enough to have known him. Sergeant First Class John Joseph Harrington Jr. embodied the very essence of honor, sacrifice, and patriotism, leaving an indelible imprint on the hearts of all who had the privilege of calling him friend, family, or comrade.
I am not a veteran. I am a member of the Civil Air Patrol, the United States Air Force Auxiliary. But in 1991, personal loss brought me to a place I never left.
Over two decades later, that loss led me to the State Veterans Cemetery in Middletown, Connecticut, where I took on the coordination of Wreaths Across America — which grew into the largest and fastest growing veterans program in the state. I didn’t do it for recognition. I did it for them.
In 2016 I founded the Connecticut Veterans Bulletin. Not because I served, but because I believe those who did deserve to be honored, connected, and kept alive.
Twenty-two veterans die by suicide every day. I knew about that number before it became a hashtag. I knew it personally, long before anyone was talking about it.
This publication exists because that number is unacceptable. Because every veteran in Connecticut deserves to know someone gives a damn.
That someone is me.