May 6, 2025

Memorial Day event in Rensselaer honors local fallen heroes

CBS 6 Albany

A special Memorial Day event is taking place today in the Capital Region, honoring local fallen heroes. The Rensselaer Police Department is hosting “Carry the Load” at Riverfront Park, a tribute to Chief Warrant Officer 2 Casey Frankoski and John Grassia, both of whom died in an Army National Guard helicopter crash in March of last year.

The event will feature a walk through the city, covering over 5 miles, followed by a ceremony and speeches at Riverfront Park. Attendees will have the opportunity to share stories with Gold Star families, veterans, and first responders.

CBS6 has spoken with James Frankoski, Casey’s father, who said, “They say when you join the army, you write a blank check. And the two of them gave their lives for this country. They wrote the blank check.”

Senator Jake Ashby added, “And their sacrifice should push us beyond the horizons of our own pursuits. What we strive to do each day should be challenged.”

Watch the news story here.

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Memorial Day event in Rensselaer honors local fallen heroes

CBS 6 Albany

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