#PrattStrong - Help National Guardsman Jacob Pratt

Dear Friends and Family,

With a mixture of heavy hearts and hopeful spirits, we reach out to you in support of National Guardsman Aircraft Crew Chief Jacob Pratt – a cherished, kind, courageous young man currently in the fight for his life. On Friday, March 8, 2024, Jacob Pratt was involved in a tragic helicopter crash along the southern Texas border. This devastating incident claimed the lives of two of his fellow National Guard soldiers and a Border Patrol agent. Our thoughts and prayers go out to their families as they navigate through this unimaginable grief.

Jacob is currently receiving treatment in Texas for severe injuries sustained in the crash. He has suffered multiple broken bones, including fractures in his back, ribs, leg and pelvis. While the full extent of his injuries are still being assessed, it is clear that Jacob has a long and arduous road to recovery.

Kelley, Kenny, Olivia and the entire Pratt family humbly ask for your continued thoughts and prayers for their brave son and brother. The outpouring of kindness and concern from both familiar faces and strangers alike has been deeply touching. Kelley, Kenny, and Olivia are by Jacob’s side in Texas, but the uncertainty of the days, weeks, and months ahead weighs heavily upon them.

In an effort to alleviate some of the financial strain associated with Jacob’s medical care and recovery, we have established this GoFundMe campaign. Your contribution, no matter the amount, will directly support the Pratt family by covering medical expenses, accommodations, and other necessary support services.

So many kind and concerned people, friends and strangers have reached out to offer their help and support. Please consider sharing this campaign with your networks to help us reach as many people as possible. Your support, whether through donations or spreading awareness, is invaluable in this time of need.

Thank you for standing with Jacob and his family during this challenging journey.

Times Union - Guardsman injury update

This GoFundMe has been established by the colleagues of Jacob's mom, Kelley Pratt. Kelley has worked with the NYS Council of School Superintendents for over 11 years. The bond this family shares is beyond words and we thank you all so much for supporting them during this challenging time. All funds will go directly to the Pratt family to offset medical expenses not covered by the military, and accommodations while the family is providing support to Jacob, and other necessary support services. Although the military has provided hotel accommodations for Jacob’s family, his family is now exploring short-term rental accommodations in order to provide the long-term support needed for Jacob while in Texas. The family is from upstate New York and traveled to Texas to be with Jacob.