Honor Mission
Paul E. Gackenheimer
United States Air Force
Vietnam War Era Veteran
Schuylerville, NY - 07/29/2025
Mission applies to the following Region(s):
Region 4, Region 5
About the Mission:
The family of Paul E. Gackenheimer has requested Patriot Guard Riders' participation in his military honors funeral services. Paul, 75, died Friday, July 25, 2025, at Samaritan Hospital.
Born in Troy, NY, Paul was a graduate of Troy High School. He enlisted in the US Air Force on 15 August 1969 and was trained as an Aircraft Maintenance Specialist (AFSC 43151C). He spent 4 years on active duty, including a tour of duty in Thailand where he was a Crew Chief on an F-4 Phantom aircraft piloted by Captain R.S. Richie, the first Air Force "Ace" of the Vietnam War. He was honorably discharged at the rank of Sergeant on 14 August 1973 and completed his inactive reserve obligation on 9 June 1975. For his service, he was awarded; Air Force Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Small Arms Expert Ribbon and a Vietnam Service Medal.
After his military service, Paul was a computer operator for the New York State Department of Education for over 30 years, retiring 25 years ago. He was a member of the American Legion Post 1489 in Wynantskill for over 53 years.
Primary Staging Date and Staging Time:
07/29/2025 at 12:00pm
Staging Location:
Saratoga National Cemetery
200 Duell Rd.
Schuylerville, NY 12871
Lead Ride Captain and Contact Info:
Bill Schaaf
518-542-0608
Special Information:
Interment with military honors scheduled for 12:30 pm. Please stage quietly and in accordance with current guidelines.
Is there a Second Stage to this Mission?
no
Submitted by:
Ray Sestak
rs 07/27; MER
