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Legislation has been introduced at the New York State Capitol to honor John M. Grassia III, a National Guardsman who died in a helicopter crash last year. The bill proposes renaming a bridge on Mariaville Road in Rotterdam as the "John M. Grassia III Memorial Bridge." Grassia, a Chief Warrant Officer, lost his life during a mission near Rio Grande City, Texas, while supporting U.S. Customs and Border Protection operations as part of Joint Task Force North.
Senator Patricia Fahy and Assemblymember Angelo Santabarbara announced the proposal, which aims to express the Capital Region's appreciation and regret for Grassia's sacrifice. Grassia, who graduated from Schalmont High School in 2012, was also a New York State Trooper. His family expressed gratitude for the recognition, stating, "Your recognition not only keeps his legacy alive but also celebrates him as an esteemed American hero."
The helicopter crash also claimed the life of Chief Warrant Officer Casey N. Frankoski. In January, a bridge in Rensselaer County was renamed in Frankoski's honor. The proposed legislation for Grassia's memorial bridge is part of ongoing efforts to honor those who have served and sacrificed for their country.