Honor Mission
James R. Fahrenkopf
United States Air Force
Vietnam War Veteran
Ravena, NY - 03-14-2026
Mission applies to the following Region(s):
Region 4, Region 5
About the Mission:
The family of James Raymond Fahrenkopf has requested Patriot Guard Riders' participation in his military honors funeral services. James, 80, passed away peacefully March 6th at the Stratton VA Medical Center.
Born in Rensselaer, NY, James enlisted in the U.S. Air Force on 19 December 1966 and was trained as a Turbo Prop Aircraft Mechanic (AFSC 43151F). He served on active duty for 3 years, 11 months and 20 days with 18 months overseas, including a tour of duty in Vietnam with the The "Blind Bats" as aircrew aboard C‑130A Hercules flareships, conducting night illumination and forward‑air‑control missions over Laos, North Vietnam, and the Ho Chi Minh Trail. He was honorably discharged at the rank of Staff Sergeant (E-5) on 9 December 1970, and completed his inactive reserve obligation on 23 August 1972. For his service, he was awarded; a, Air Force Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal w/1 Bronze Service Star and a Republic of Vietnam Service Medal w/1960 Device.
After his military service, James went on to a successful career on the railroad with Conrail. He was a long standing member of the of the R. C. Sportsman Club and the Ravena Coeymans Yacht Club.
A full obituary is available for viewing online by clicking here
Primary Staging Date and Staging Time:
03-14-2026 at 09:45am
Staging Location:
Babcock Funeral Home
19 Pulver Ave.
Ravena, NY 12143
Lead Ride Captain and Contact Info:
Ray Sestak
518-669-3358
Special Information:
Staging at the funeral home with a flag line during the last hour of Visitation. Following the funeral service, members will conduct a final salute and dignified transfer, followed by escort to St. Patricks/Grove Cemetery, Blaisdell Ave., Coeymans, NY 12045 for interment with military honors.
Is there a Second Stage to this Mission?
no
Submitted by:
Ray Sestak
rs 03/10; MER
