Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today with a heavy heart to mourn the tragic loss of two soldiers of the National Guard who called our capital region in New York home. On March 8, 2024, Chief Warrant Officers 2 Casey Frankoski of Rensselaer and John Grassia of Rotterdam tragically perished in a helicopter accident in Texas. They deeply embodied a commitment of service to others. Chief Warrant Officer Frankoski was on the cusp of achieving a bachelor's degree in emergency management and was connected to many community organizations, including serving as a volunteer firefighter and a member of the Environmental Conservation Corps. Chief Warrant Officer Grassia served as a cybersecurity analyst with the New York State Department of Homeland Security and, most recently and proudly, as a New York State trooper. This week, these heroes were brought home and met with the honors and recognitions deserving of their incredible bravery and sacrifice. My heart goes out to the vast universe of family, friends, and loved ones left behind and shattered by this truly terrible loss. They have left us too soon but will forever be remembered and treasured by all who loved them. Their memories and their service will serve as a beacon for all in our capital region community and beyond. ____________________”