Sean Michael McCarthy was a strong, confident, and caring man with a sharp sense of humor and a sarcastic wit. He was a proud member of FDNY Engine Company 280 in Brooklyn, New York. Sean was a man of many passions, and fishing was one of them. Sean loved to fish, and when not at the firehouse, he could be found navigating the waters off Jones Beach on his 29-foot boat, Beast of Burden. Sean’s wife, Stacey, and his nieces and nephews would often accompany Sean. Another passion was cooking. He absolutely loved to be in the kitchen preparing a great meal for his fellow firefighters and family. He was extremely meticulous and creative with his meals.

Sean joined the New York City Fire Department in 1996. He was one of five brothers who followed their father into the New York City Fire Department. Being a fireman came naturally. He was assigned to Engine 221 in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. In 2001, he was transferred to Engine 280, Ladder 132 in the Crown Heights section of Brooklyn. The company had a stellar reputation, and Sean just fit right in. He was selfless, proud, and worked with professionalism and a quiet confidence. When not working in Brooklyn, Sean was also a member of the Bellmore Volunteer Fire Department in his hometown of Bellmore, New York. He loved serving his community and always gave of himself.

Sean responded to the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001. He spent countless hours and worked tirelessly at Ground Zero searching and recovering. Shortly after getting married on June 25, 2004, Sean developed health problems. He was diagnosed with cancer in 2006 and fought courageously throughout surgeries and treatments. On May 27, 2008, Sean tragically lost his battle with cancer at the age of 35. He was a beloved husband, son, brother, uncle, and friend. He made the supreme sacrifice, and he is truly missed.