No matter how careful we are, or how healthy we believe we are, not one among us is guaranteed to wake up tomorrow.

Though everyone’s life features a certain amount of risk, those who serve as members of the military, police officers or firefighters often face particularly dangerous situations.

Such was the case for Hudson native Air Force Capt. Ryan Phaneuf. At the age of just 30, he died in a plane crash last month while serving in Afghanistan. Phaneuf was on board a Bombardier E-11A electronic surveillance plane when the aircraft was lost.

Phaneuf had been assigned to the 37th Bomb Squadron at Ellsworth Air Force Base, South Dakota. He graduated in 2007 from Alvirne High School, where he was a member of the junior ROTC program. He accomplished his dream goal of becoming an Air Force pilot.

Preparations are underway for the wake and funeral of Phaneuf. Both are happening next week, as the events are scheduled at St. Kathryn’s Church on Dracut Road in Hudson.

Visiting hours will be from 1-8 p.m. Friday. A Mass of Christian Burial is set for 10 a.m. Saturday at the church. Phaneuf will receive full military honors in a private burial at Arlington National Cemetery on March 9, surrounded by family and friends.

Currently, the Hudson Fire and Police departments are working to support the family during this time by asking local businesses to place “Rest in Peace Captain Phaneuf” on signboards.

We encourage members of the Hudson community, and all of Greater Nashua, to acknowledge Phaneuf this week in this manner. His sacrifice is an example of what allows Americans freedom of speech, freedom of religion, the right to bear arms, and the right to pursue one’s dreams.

We, at The Telegraph, honor Capt. Ryan Phaneuf, and send our deepest sympathies to members of his family. We thank him for his service and for their ultimate sacrifice.

Newsletter