Funeral services for John Grassia III were held at St. John the Evangelist Church in Schenectady on Tuesday.

The National Guard member was laid to rest more than two weeks after being killed in a helicopter crash on the U.S.-Mexico border.

His funeral followed last week’s funeral of Casey Frankoski, who also died in the crash.

At least 100 family, friends, and military members lined up to place their hand on Grassia’s casket.
Grassia had a goal of being a pilot for Gov. Kathy Hochul.

During the service, Hochul posthumously promoted Grassia to technical sergeant of the New York State Aviation Division. It’s a dream he had been chasing for his whole life.

“I wish he had that chance. He was coming home in October for his interview,” said Hochul. “I guarantee you we would’ve hired him with a background like that.”

Grassia’s body was brought to Saratoga National Cemetery after the funeral, where he was given full military honors.

Hear some of what Grassia’s family, friends and others had to say about him at the funeral, by watching the video of Rachel Tiede’s story.