March 18th, 2024
Churchville native was killed in April 2022 helicopter crash
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Monroe County Executive Adam Bello joined County Legislators to dedicate memorial signs to James Sauer on Davis Rd. in the towns of Chili and Riga. Sauer, who had been a pilot with Mercy Flight since 2020, and flight instructor Stewart M. Dietrick were killed when their helicopter crashed during a training exercise on April 26, 2022.
The signs were installed on Davis Road, where the Sauer family have been long time residents. One sign is at the intersection of Attridge Road in the town of Riga and the other at the Union Street intersection in the town of Chili. The signs read “In Honor of James E. Sauer and his sacrifice for our community,” and display the Army National Guard, the Rochester Police Department, the New York State Police, and Mercy Flight logos.
“James Sauer’s commitment to serving his community is an inspiration to all of us,” said Monroe County Executive Adam Bello. “Through his career in law enforcement, his military service, and his work with Mercy Flight, he made a difference in the lives of others and made his community a better place. By dedicating Davis Road to him, we honor that service and commit his legacy to memory.”
“On behalf of the Sauer family, we would like to express our sincere gratitude to Tracy DiFlorio and Monroe County for recognizing my husband and your commitment to making this dedication a reality,” said Marie Sauer, wife of James Sauer. “To Michael Sauer, our nephew, a special heartfelt ‘thank you’ for the wonderful idea to make this dedication possible. Your Uncle would be so proud! We love you! This will be a lasting tribute to a man of honor, commitment and service. His sacrifice will never be forgotten, and he will always be in our hearts.”
James Sauer served in the New York Army National Guard for 40 years, including several tours overseas. He served as a Rochester Police Officer from 1993 to 2001 and later spent time with the Holley Police Department and New York State Police.
"By memorializing this road in honor of James Sauer, we remember the legacy of a true hero. I was truly honored to sponsor the legislation and see this memorialization go from a dream to a reality," said Legislator Tracy DiFlorio. "Jim's dedication to Mercy Flight and his ultimate sacrifice is a beacon of inspiration for us all. As the scripture tells us in John 15:13, "Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one's life for his friends." This memorialization is a testament to his unwavering commitment and a continuous reminder of the selflessness and bravery that define our community's finest."
“As we dedicate this road in memory of James Sauer, we not only honor his legacy but also pay tribute to the profound impact he made as a Mercy Flight pilot, veteran, law enforcement member, and neighbor," said Republican Leader Steve Brew. "Jim's courage, compassion, and commitment to service will forever be remembered by our community. This memorial will symbolize gratitude and remembrance for his remarkable contributions and the lives he touched.”
“The loss of James Sauer has left a permanent mark on our community. Jim’s lifelong dedication to our country and community service shall forever be remembered. It is fitting that we now honor his memory by dedicating this road in his memory,” said Chili Supervisor David Dunning.
