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SGT Shawn M. Farrell II
Sept 1, 1989 - April, 28, 2014 On the morning of May 7, 2014 Sgt. Shawn Michael Farrell II was escorted home to Accord, NY by his family, members of the United States Military, members of local Fire Departments, Ulster county Sheriff’s Department, New York State Police, and Patriot Guard Riders. The family then held a private ceremony. The following day hundreds of friends and members of the public paid their respects to this Fallen Hero who died of wounds sustained while serving in Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. When Shawn's element came under heavy rocket and small-arms fire from a numerically superior enemy Shawn assumed his position in the heart of the enemy neutralization zone and delivered accurate devastating suppressive fire. Although fatally wounded he continued to provide covering fire, and inspired his element to take the fight to the enemy. His actions were instrumental in gaining fire superiority that eventually routed the enemy from the area and saved the lives of his grateful teammates. Stated one of his commanding officers, "Shawn went down in a blaze of fire!" Among his many awards and decorations Shawn received posthumously the Meritorious Award, the Bronze Star, Bronze Star with Valor Award, and the Purple Heart. In his army career Shawn had completed the Warrior leader Course, the Combat Life Savers Course and the Air Assault Course. Country, family and friends were his priorities in life. He lived a life of service with a joyfulness and playfulness that lives in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. Says his mother, “Shawn was an amazing young man. He really loved his job and fighting for what was right. He had the biggest heart, and was always striving to be his best.” At the young age of 24 he left behind his wife, Allison Hilbrandt Farrell; his mother, Heather Stokes; his father, Shawn Farrell; three brothers Brandon, Jake and David; two sisters, Jenna and Aidan; and many more family and friends including his Army ‘brothers’. It was my honor to paint a portrait of this courageous young man and present it to his mother. Portrait sponsored by: |