On March 8 of last year, New York Army National Guard aviators Casey Frankoski and John Grassia died in a helicopter crash near the U.S./Mexico border in Texas.

“They gave their lives for this country and we want people always remember that," said Jim Frankoski, Casey's father.

Flying was always a dream for Casey.

“She's wanted to fly since she was 3 years old. We have a picture of her sitting in a helicopter seat when she was about 3 years old, and she did it," said Jill Frankoski, Casey's mother.  

Grassia also felt a calling to serve at a young age.

“He joined the service because of 9/11,” said Judith Grassia, John's mother. “He was 7 years old and he could see the fear on our faces. And he said at 7 that he was going to join the Army and protect his country and his family.” 

His family calls him fearless. In addition to serving his country, John was a New York State trooper.

“Every goal he went for, he did," said John Grassia, John's father. 

“Even in death, the governor promoted him to technical sergeant in aviation,” Judith said. “That was the next job he was going for.”

Casey’s family says she was driven and cared about people deeply.

"She made everybody feel comfortable and loved everybody,” Jill said. “She was a good daughter.”

“There was a high school senior that came into her class her senior year from out of state. Didn’t know anybody. And Casey took her under her wing, guided her through the senior year. And that girl came back for Casey’s services from Florida," Jim said. 

As people across the country celebrate Memorial Day, both families want the true meaning of the holiday to shine through.

“The reason they can have their barbecues is because of the sacrifice they made,” Jim said. “They fought for this country, and they served for this country and they gave their lives for this country. And that's what it's about: remembering them.”