Introduction
National Guard helicopter goes down near U.S.-Mexican border, killing three people
A National Guard helicopter went down Friday, killing three people and leaving a trail of grief for families and colleagues. The chopper went down shortly before 4:00 p.m.
Table of Contents
The Incident
The helicopter, a UH-72 Lakota from the National Guard, was operating as part of a Federal Southwest border support mission as it crossed the U.S. Mexico border near the city of Rio Grande City. Three people were killed and one National Guard member was injured in the crash.
The Victims
Chief Warrant Officer 2 Casey Frankoski
- Age: 28
- Hometown: Rensselaer, New York
- Role: A dedicated National Guard member, Chief Warrant Officer 2 Frankoski tragically lost his life in the crash. His commitment to serving our nation will forever be remembered.
Chief Warrant Officer 2 John Grassia
- Age: 30
- Hometown: Schenectady, New York
- Legacy: Chief Warrant Officer 2 Grassia, another New York Army National Guard soldier, stood alongside Frankoski in their final moments. Their sacrifice underscores the risks faced by those who protect our borders.
Border Patrol Agent Chris Luna
- Role: Luna, a dedicated Border Patrol agent, also perished in the crash. His unwavering commitment to safeguarding our borders and ensuring our safety will be etched in our memories.
Homeland Mourns
Alejandro Mayorkas, Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security, paid tribute to the families of those who lost their lives. “Our Border Patrol Agents put themselves at risk every day to keep us safe,” he said in a statement. “They will never be forgotten.”
Investigation and Reflection
The NTSB is still investigating the circumstances of the crash. President Biden expressed his condolences to the families and loved ones of the fallen heroes. “They gave their lives to protect our nation,” he said in a statement. “They will be missed for a long time to come. Our thoughts and prayers are with their families, friends, and loved ones. We are praying for the speedy recovery of the injured National Guardman.” The fallen heroes were members of the United States National Guard and United States Border Patrol.
Conclusion
As the country mourns the loss of Chief Warrant Officer Two Casey Frankoski and Chief Warrant Officer Two John Grassia, along with Border Patrol agent Chris Luna, their sacrifice and bravery serve as a testament to the men and women who guard our nation’s borders.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and loved ones of both John and Casey. May they rest in peace. And may their legacy continue to inspire us all.
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