O'Hare TSA Officer From Westmont Dies From Coronavirus

WESTMONT, IL — A TSA officer a O'Hare International Airport died Monday after contracting COVID-19, the illness caused by the coronavirus, according to a news release from the agency. He was identified as Andrew Meany, who was one of the airport's founding transportation security officers. His LinkedIn page lists him as a Westmont resident.

Meany joined the TSA less than a year after the Sept. 11 tragedy, quickly mastering passenger screening operations before transitioning to checked baggage for many years, the news release said. He is remembered as a family man, who loved his dogs and collected Elvis and Johnny Cash memorabilia, the TSA said. He was also an avid sports fan and rooted for the Chicago Bears and the Chicago White Sox.

"During his nearly 18 years of service to TSA, Andrew humbly and honorably led with dedication and professionalism," the release said. "TSO Meany’s dedication to our mission of protecting the traveling public will not be forgotten."