NYNG / US Border Patrol Fallen - March 8th, 2024

Casey was dedicated to serving the United States. She enlisted in the Army National Guard in October 2016, was appointed Chief Warrant Officer in 2019, and was promoted to Chief Warrant Officer 2 in 2021. Casey bravely trained to become a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter pilot. In November 2018, Casey was deployed to Kuwait where she courageously served until September 2019, with Detachment 5, Company C, 2nd Battalion, 245th Aviation Regiment as a Mission Planner. After returning home for a short time, Casey went to Alabama first for Warrant Officer school, graduating in November 2019, and then for flight school and graduated in July 2021. Casey was deployed again as a pilot to Texas with Detachment 2, Company A, 1st Battalion, 224 Aviation Regiment to patrol the United States - Mexico border on October 11, 2023. While proudly serving in the United States Army National Guard Casey received many honors including the: Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Armed Forces Service Medal, Non-Commissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon, Armed Forces Reserve Medal, Basic Aviator Badge, and the Basic Aviation Badge. At home, Casey was previously a volunteer firefighter at the Best Luther Fire Department, a member of the Environmental Conservation Corp., and a current member of the American Legion Gerald O'Neil Post 1683.

Prior to enlisting in the Army, Casey graduated from Columbia High School in 2013. While at Columbia she was a member of the Varsity Bowling team. Casey continued her education at Schenectady County Community College and graduated with an associate degree in social science. Here, she was a member of the National Junior College Championship bowling team. At the time of her passing, Casey was in her final class to complete her bachelor's degree in emergency management at Excelsior College.

Casey is survived by her parents, two brothers, grandfather, and boyfriend.

John's passion for serving his nation was evident early on. When he turned 18, he immediately enlisted in the Army National Guard before his graduation from Schalmont High School in 2012. John attended Basic Combat Training at Fort Jackson, South Carolina, and Advanced Individual Training in 2013 at Fort Eustis, Virginia. Upon completion, he was awarded the MOS 15T - UH-60 Helicopter Repairer. From 2013 to 2014, he served in Kuwait, where he gained unforgettable experiences and friendships.

John furthered his education at the University at Albany, earning a B.S. in Informatics and Cyber Security. From 2017 to 2019, he worked as a cybersecurity analyst for the NYS Department of Homeland Security.

In 2018, John was selected for Warrant Officer Candidate School at Fort Novosel (Rucker), AL. In 2020, he attended the UH-60M aviation qualification course and Warrant Officer Basic Course at Fort Novosel, AL, and later, in 2023, he excelled in advanced courses. John's commitment to excellence propelled him to attend Warrant Officer Candidate School and the UH-60M aviation qualification course. As a Chief Warrant Officer 2 and UH-60M Pilot, he embodied the word determination. CW2 Grassia's awards and decorations include the Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal 3rd award, Army Good Conduct Medal, Army Reserve Component Achievement 3rd Award, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Global War Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Armed Forces Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Armed Forces Reserve Medal with "M" device 2nd award, Basic Aviator Badge, and Basic Aviation Badge.

John was making his dreams a reality. In 2022, he proudly became a New York State Trooper. He was stationed at Troop K SO Livingston and later transferred to Fonda, New York. His devotion to helping and protecting others was evident to all who knew him. He was a true American hero.

If you were to find one word to describe I's life, it would be, adventure! His love for adrenaline was sparked at the young age of four, leading him to become the renowned number 605 in BMX racing and, later, a force to be reckoned with in motocross. John's infectious smile and spirit made him the life of the party, someone who brought joy and laughter wherever he went. He enjoyed being on the water, and as a member of the Sacandaga Boating Club, boating was a way of life. Being on the lake and at home on his vast property in Rotterdam were his favorite places.

His love for family was boundless, especially for his nieces and nephews, John was more than the fun uncle; he was a role model whose legacy of bravery and kindness will inspire them for generations to come.

As we reflect on his short but fulfilled life, let us remember the lessons John imparted through his actions: to serve with honor, to love without limits, and to embrace today because tomorrow is not promised, John Michael Grassia Ill was a hero not only in how he died but, more importantly, in how he lived. He made a positive difference in our world, and the ripple effect of his life carries on now and forever.

John is survived by his parents, and two sisters.

BPA Christopher Luna joined the United States Border Patrol, April 9th, 2007, as a member of Class 671. Border Patrol Agent (BPA) Luna was assigned to the Rio Grande City Station, part of the Rio Grande Valley Sector. As a nearly 17 year veteran of Border Patrol, BPA Luna had an immense knowledge of tracking and sign-cutting, firearms, and immigration law. Chris was assigned to educate many new agents in area orientation and tactical operations. BPA Luna was a member of the Rio Grande City Station “Brush Crew” for close to four years. BPA Luna subsequently became an All-Terrain Vehicle operator and instructor. Chris spent the bulk of his career on an ATV, rain or shine, often in sweltering heat and continuously exposed to the elements.

In May 2023, BPA Luna was selected to become a Supplemental Aircrew Member with the McAlllen Air and Marine Branch, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Air and Marine Operations. Chris served a crewmember on the UH-60 Blackhawk, AS350 (ASTAR) helicopter, and was a crewmember on the National Guard UH-72 Lakota. Chris flew extensively in support of border security operations in both Air and Marine Operations and National Guard helicopters. Chris was a loving father, husband and son. He is a second-generation Law Enforcement Officer. Chris was an avid golfer, car enthusiast, and had a vast taste in music, and was a dedicated friend. He will be forever missed by his family and his community, where his memory will be cherished by all who knew him.

Chris is survived by his wife, two children, brother, and parents.