Battalion holds pinning ceremony for Sgt. Jacob Pratt

TEXAS (NEWS10) -- A National Guard aircraft crew chief, who was seriously injured in a helicopter crash, is being honored as he continues his recovery. The 142nd Assault Helicopter Battalion held a pinning ceremony to welcome Jacob Pratt as their newest member.

Pratt has undergone multiple surgeries. He still faces a long road to recovery but can be seen in photos sitting up and smiling in his hospital bed in Texas where he has been receiving treatment in the two months since the crash.

New York Army National Guard members Casey Frankoski and John Grassia were killed in the crash. Both lived a life of service.

Frankoski was a volunteer firefighter, and Grassia was a New York State trooper. A border patrol agent was also killed in the crash.

The cause is still under investigation.