PGRNY Completed Missions

Honor Mission

CSM Richard F. Fearnside

US Army - ARNGUS
Global War on Terrorism Veteran

Multi-City, NY - 09/03/2024

Mission applies to the following Region(s):

Region 4, Region 5

About the Mission:

The family of US Army National Guard Command Sergeant Major (Retired) Richard F. Fearnside has requested Patriot Guard Riders participation in his military honors funeral services. Sergeant Fearnside, of Niskayuna, NY, passed away on Wednesday, August 28, 2024, at the age of 69.

Born and raised in Albany, Richard led a distinguished 35-year career in the Army and Army National Guard. Enlisting in 1974, he began as an infantryman and held positions of increasing responsibility throughout his service. Due to his exceptional leadership and performance, his career culminated as the Command Sergeant Major (E-9) of the 42nd Infantry Division (Rainbow) in Troy, where he led the Division during their deployment to Iraq as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom, retiring in 2009.

Throughout his career, he earned numerous awards and decorations, including the Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Humanitarian Service Medal, Expert Infantry Badge, and the Combat Action Badge, among many others.

Portions of the above narrative are contained in Sergeant Fearnside's obituary, available for viewing online by clicking here

Primary Staging Date and Staging Time:

09/03/2024 at 09:15am

Staging Location:

Church of St. Vincent De Paul
900 Madison Ave.
Albany, NY 12208

Lead Ride Captain and Contact Info:

Paul Orzolek
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Special Covid-19 Mission Guidelines:

Updated 15, May 2024

The CDC has changed its COVID-19 protocol recommendations for 2024, updating them to reflect the changing severity and transmission of the virus. Please click here for the latest information and continue to practice common sense distancing protocols while in enclosed locations.

Special Information:

Staging at the church with a flag line for the arrival of the funeral cortege. There will be a dignified transfer prior to the 10:00 am Mass. Following services, members will provide escort to St. Agnes Cemetery, 48 Cemetery Avenue, Menands, NY, for interment with military honors.

Is there a Second Stage to this Mission?

no

Submitted by:

Ray Sestak

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