14 Dec, 2013
LATHAM , NY - Maj. Gen. Patrick Murphy, The Adjutant General of New York State (left), poses with Sgt. 1st Class Michael Lieber (middle) and Lieber's wife Marcia (right) after awarding Lieber the meritorious service medal during ceremonies here on Dec. 13. Lieber, a Schenectady, N.Y. resident who is retiring at the end of December, served from 1975 to 1985 , re-enlisted in 2003 and served in Iraq about two years later. As the oldest serving Soldier in the New York Army National Guard, Lieber joined two of the youngest New York National Guard members to cut a cake in celebration of the National Guard's 377th Birthday during the ceremonies. The ceremonies included other awards and enlistments. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. 1st Class Raymond Drumsta, New York Army National Guard)30 Dec, 2013
KUWAIT--UH-60 Blackhawks from A Co. 3-142nd Assault Helicopter Company 42nd Combat Aviation Brigade air drop soldiers from A Co. 1-67th Infantry (Heavy) 2-4th Infantry Division during a training exercise on Dec. 28th 2013 outside of Camp Buehring Kuwait.The 42nd CAB New York Army National Guard is currently deployed overseas to operate rotary winged aircraft in suport of Operation Enduring Freedom.14 Dec, 2013
LATHAM , NY - Maj. Gen. Patrick Murphy, The Adjutant General of New York State (left), shakes hands with Col. (ret) Eric Olsen, the former chaplain of the New York Army National Guard, after awarding Olsen the legion of merit during ceremonies here on Dec. 13. An Iraq veteran and Saranac Lake resident, Olsen retired after 30 years of service. The ceremonies included other awards, enlistments and a celebration of the National Guard's 377th Birthday. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. 1st Class Raymond Drumsta, New York Army National Guard)24 Dec, 2013
GLENS FALLS N.Y. - New York Army National Guard Soldiers Spcs. James Zito left of South Glens Falls Nicolas Cassey from Gansevoort and Russell Smith of Queensbury assist event organizer and retired Army National Guard Sgt. 1st Class Art Coon center as they lead the participants of the 10th annual Christmas Eve Roadmarch here Dec. 24. Participants from the New York Army and Air National Guard veterans organizations family members and community supporters turned out for the 3.6 mile march through town to support deployed servicemembers around the world. More than 1000 participants turned out for the 2013 event saluting the original unit members of the 2nd Battalion 108th Infantry who were deployed to Iraq in 2004 for the original roadmarch. U.S. National Guard photo by Col. Richard Goldenberg New York Army National Guard.23 Dec, 2013
ROME--Sr. Airman Kyle Hesse and Sr. Airman Phillip Gentile will be among the Airman at the Eastern Air Defense Sector tracking Santa Claus as he flys around the world Christmas Eve as part of the annual "NORAD tracks Santa" event. The New York Air Nationnal Guard unit is responsible for monitoring the airspace over the United States east of the Mississippi.23 Dec, 2013
ROCHESTER, N.Y. - More than 120 New York Army National Guard Soldiers from the 222nd Military Police Company returned home December 21 following their demobilization at Camp Shelby, Miss. They were met by family members ready to take their Soldiers home for Christmas. The unit arrived back in the United States on December 14 following the successful completion of a security force mission for U.S. facilities in Qatar over the past ten months. The 222nd Military Police Company first organized in 2005 as part of the 102nd Military Police Battalion. After standing up, the unit served in Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2006-07. While in theater, the company performed over 1,600 combat patrols in Baghdad, Iraq. The 222nd MP Company went on to distinguish itself with support for other deploying military police units, including individual volunteers for missions to Iraq, Afghanistan or Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. The company also saw extensive civil support mission support here in New York. Hurricane Irene took the company in 2011 from Hornell to Long Island, eventually ending up in Margaretville, New York. The Soldiers assisted the local community by helping the people clean up after their homes were ravished by the floods. Over 1,000 miles of roads were travelled, and hours of patrols were conducted to ensure the safety and welfare for those who were affected by the storm. Photo courtesy Staff Sergeant Jonathan Cregg, 222nd Military Police Company.19 Dec, 2013
NEW YORK--Major General Patrick Murphy the Adjutant General of New York presents an award commemorating the ten-year old National Guard State Partnership Program relationship between the New York National Guard and the South African National Defense Force to Kingsley Mamabolo the South African Ambassador to the United Nations during a ceremony held at the Lexington Avenue Armory here on Wednesday, Dec. 18 to mark the anniversary.19 Dec, 2013
ALBANY N.Y. -- The 109th Airlift Wing Company Grade Officers Council donated 2250 to the Fisher House on Dec. 17 2013 with funds raised from a golf tournament the council hosted earlier in the year. Pictured are (from left) Capt. James Vendetti Capt. James Roth Linda Weiss Stratton VA Medical Center Director Capt. Melissa Cucchi Capt. Ashley FitzGibbon and Jerry Jensen Albany Fisher House Manager.20 Dec, 2013
NEW YORK-- New York Army National Guard Soldiers, from left, Private 1st Class Alex Bryers of Mastic Beach, Staff Sgt. Rosemary Taylor of Hillis and Spc. Adisha Donovan from Brooklyn all assist with the collection, sorting and distribution of donated toys and gifts at the Jacob Javits Center in Manhattan for Governor Andrew Cuomo’s “NY Gives Initiative,” providing state duties in support of the New York State Office of General Services to support the distribution of the donated items to families in need across the New York City region struck by Hurricane Sandy in 2012. The Soldiers, part of the 222nd Chemical Company, based at Fort Hamilton in Brooklyn, served for three days along with more than 50 other Soldiers to help bring holiday cheer to needy families across New York City and Westchester. Photo by 1st Lt. Mark Getman, 3rd Battalion, 142nd Aviation Regiment.19 Dec, 2013
ARABIAN GULF (December 8th, 2013) -- A UH-60 Blackhawk helicopter operated by Soldiers of the New York Army National Guard's 42nd Combat Aviation Brigade (CAB) takes off from the U.S.S. Ponce in the Arabian Gulf. The CAB is replacing a Texas Army National Guard unit in Kuwait and will conduct several joint exercises with nations in the region while maintaining an American presence there.19 Dec, 2013
STEWART AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE-- New York Air National Guard Col Howard N. Wagner Commander of the 105th Maintenance answers a question about cold weather aircraft maintenance operations from Brig Gen Mashoro Abel Phala the Senior Defense Attache to the United States from the Republic of South Africa after a tour of the 11th C-5M Super Galaxy undergoing refurbishment at the base.Prior to the tour Brig Gen Phala was given a briefing on 105th Airlift Wing operations by Col Timothy J. LaBarge 105AW commander Dec. 17 2013. The New York National Guard and the South African National Defense Force share ten-year old partnership through the National Guard's State Partnership Program.14 Dec, 2013
LATHAM , NY - Maj. Gen. Patrick Murphy, The Adjutant General of New York State (left), swears in some new members of the New York Army National Guard during ceremonies here on Dec. 13. The new Soldiers taking the oath of enlistment are (from left) Pfc. Danielle Carl, of Slingerlands, N.Y.; Pvt. Monica Dinoto, of Ballston Lake, N.Y.; Pvt. Nicolette Jackson of East Greenbush, N.Y.; Pvt. Andrew Rizzuto, of Altamont, N.Y.; and Pvt. Haley Smith, of Fort Ann, N.Y. Col. Richard Goldenberg (middle left, background) narrated the ceremonies, which included awards and a celebration of the National Guard's 377th Birthday. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. 1st Class Raymond Drumsta, New York Army National Guard)14 Dec, 2013
LATHAM , NY - New York National Guard Airman 1st Class Rafael Lopez (left), Sgt. 1st Class Michael Lieber (middle) and Pvt. Ryan Potosky (right) use a ceremonial sabre to cut a cake in celebration of the National Guard's 377th Birthday here on Dec. 13. Lopez, 19, and Potosky, 18, both enlisted last year while Lieber, 60, is the oldest serving Soldier in the New York Army National Guard. Lieber, who is retiring at the end of December, served from 1975 to 1985 , re-enlisted in 2003 and served in Iraq about two years later. Lieber, of Schenectady, N.Y. was also awarded the meritorious service medal during the ceremonies, which included awards and enlistments. Lopez is from Saratoga Springs, N.Y. and is a member of the 109th Airlift Wing. Potosky is from Troy, N.Y. and is a member of the 42nd Combat Aviation Brigade.17 Dec, 2013
WASHINGTON-- This handmade ornament crafted by members of the New York National Guard Family Programs office is now hanging on a tree in the office of Dr. Jill Biden, the wife of Vice President Joseph Biden, an advocate for Soldier's families and the mother of a National Guard officer herself. The ornament represents New York, the National Guard Family Programs and the Army and Air Guard.17 Dec, 2013
CAMP BUEHRING, KUWAIT-- New York Army National Guard Lt. Col. Jack James, the commander of the 642nd Aviation Support Battalion and Battalion Command Sgt. Major Mark Wilson raise the New York state flag above the battalions headquarters here on Saturday, Dec. 14 as the battalion assumed its duties providing support to the 42nd Combat Aviation Brigade elements here. The Soldiers, based in Farmingdale, Dunkirk, and Rochester will be stationed in Kuwait for approximately nine months.16 Dec, 2013
STEWART AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE-- New York Air National Guard Technical Sgt. Michael Pacenza a member of the 105th Base Defense Squadron Stewart ANGB Newburgh NY gets a hug from his son during a homecoming reception held in the 105th Airlift Wing Dining Facility Dec. 16 2013. Members of the 105th Base Defense Squadron performed a six month tour of duty in Afghanistan.13 Dec, 2013
KUWAIT- New York Army National Guard Private 1st Class Tessa Marino from Clifton Park N.Y. and the youngest soldier in the 42nd Combat Aviation Brigade cuts the Army National Guard's 377th birthday cake with the brigade Command Sgt. Maj. Jorge Vasquez from Queens N.Y. in Camp Buehring Kuwait on Dec. 13 2013.The 42nd CAB composed of New York Army National Guardsmen from across the state and augmented by units from Montana and Texas arrived in Kuwait last week to conduct aviation operations in the region.12 Dec, 2013
FORT HAMILTON, NY New York Army National Guard Chaplain Candidate 1LT (Rabbi) Mark Getman assisted the Ft Hamilton Army Garrison, Chaplain (Maj) Bowman at Fort Hamilton's Hanukkah Candle lighting ceremony which was held on the last night of Hanukkah on December 4 2013. The ceremony was attended by Ft Hamilton Service members, the garrison deputy Commander, civilian personnel as well as service members from Joint Task Force Empire Shield which operates from Ft Hamilton.20 Nov, 2013
CAMP SMITH TRAINING SITE, CORTLANDT MANOR, NY -- Olga Ramon (middle right) pins the Army Achievement Medal on her son, Sgt. Shawn Stevens (left) during a Freedom Salute Ceremony here on Nov. 17. Brig. Gen. Raymond Shields, director, joint staff, New York National Guard (far right) and Col. Reginald Sanders, commander of the 369th Sustainment Brigade (middle left) observe. The ceremony honored Stevens and 49 other New York Army National Guard Soldiers who served in Kuwait for almost a year. Stevens is from Brooklyn, N.Y.9 Dec, 2013
FS GABRESKI AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, WESTHAMPTON BEACH, NY - Major General Patrick Murphy, the Adjutant General of New York, and Col Thomas Owens, the commander of the 106th Rescue Wing stand at attention with six members of the 103rd Rescue Squadron who received the Bronze Star with V for Valor during an award ceremony here on Dec. 6, 2013. The men were honored for heroism under fire during a Dec. 10, 2012 mission in Afghanistan. Honored were: Capt. Ronnie Maloney, of Middle Island; Senior Master Sgt. Erik Blom, of Hampton Bays; Technical Sgt. Anthony Yusup of Bloomsburg, PA; Staff Sgt. James Dougherty of Rocky Point; Staff Sgt. Matthew Zimmer of Westhampton; and Staff Sgt. Christopher Petersen of Commack, then a senior Airman.5 Dec, 2013
KINDERHOOK NY--New York Army National Guard Brig.General Raymond Shields speaks about President Martin Van Buren during a ceremony honoring him on Dec. 5 2013 at the Dutch Reformed Cemetery here. The ceremony marked the 231st Birthday of Van Buren. Shields presented a wreath from President Barak Obama at the grave of the eighth president. Local officials representing the Village of Kinderhook the National Park Service and local groups also presented wreaths honoring Van Buren.3 Dec, 2013
AMUNDSEN-SCOTT STATION, ANTARCTICA, South Pole -- New York National Guard Command Sgt. Major Frank Wicks ( right) and 109th Airlift Wing Command Chief Master Sgt. Amy Giaquinto at the South Pole during a Thanksgiving Week visit to meet with New York National Guard Airmen from the 109th who support the United States Antarctic Program run by the National Science Foundation. The two journeyed to the South Pole Station on board a New York Air National Guard LC-130 as part of their trip2 Dec, 2013
BALLSTON SPA, N.Y. -- New York Army National Guard volunteers from the Army Aviation Support Facility in Latham N.Y. volunteer their time to assist Chip Ellms load Christmas Trees here at Ellms Christmas Tree Farm Dec. 1. More than a dozen Soldiers volunteered to assist in the 9th annual "Trees for Troops" loading of about 150 donated trees bound for military installations and families around the country and the globe. The Soldiers volunteered their support as fellow members of the New York Army National Guard’s 42nd Combat Aviation Brigade and its subordinate units deploy this week for duties in Kuwait.29 Nov, 2013
NEW YORK - Service members assigned to Companies A and B of the New York National Guard Joint Task Force Empire Shield provide security patrols alongside local law enfrocement agency partners at major New York City transporation hubs such as Pennsylvania Station November 27th 2013, to assist with security on the busiest travel day of the year. Photo by 1st Lt. Mark H Getman, 3rd Battalion, 142nd Aviation.27 Nov, 2013
NEW YORK - Service members from the New York National Guard's Joint Task Force Empire Shield and the 369th Sustainment Brigade participate in Operation Empire Thanks at the Jacob Javits Center in Manhattan Nov. 26. The service members assisted in the sorting, packaging and delivering of 3,000 Thanksgiving meals across the NYC, Westchester and Long Island areas. U.S. National Guard photo by 1st Lt. Mark Getman.20 Nov, 2013
CAMP SMITH, CORTLANDT MANOR, NY -- New York Army National Guard Soldier Sgt. Martin Gonzalez poses after receiving the New York State Medal of Valor in a ceremony here Nov. 17. While working as a police officer for the village of Liberty, N.Y. in 2011, Gonzalez and two other officers helped rescue two people trapped in a collapsed building. The Medal of Valor is presented for acts of valor, heroism, courage or gallantry in either a civilian or a military capacity, and is the highest state award a member of the National Guard can receive. (courtesy photo)25 Nov, 2013
FORT RUCKER, Alabama-- Leaders of the New York Army National Guard's 42nd Combat Aviation Brigade mull over a tactical problem during their Aviation Training Exercise here the week of Nov. 17-23. The exercise was the final major step in the unit's preparation for a deployment to Kuwait before the end of 2013.21 Nov, 2013
SARATOGA SPRINGS-- An M4A3 "Sherman" tank that's been stored behind the New York State Military Museum here is loaded on a flatbed vehicle bound for the New York National Guard Manuever Area Training Equipment Site at Fort Drum on Thursday, Nov. 21. The vehicle will be repainted in historic colors and returned to the museum next year for display in front of the building.20 Nov, 2013
COLONIE, NY -- New York Army National Guard Soldier 1st Lt. Andrew Shaw (left), a member of the 42nd Combat Aviation Brigade (CAB), presents a certificate of appreciation from the unit to Shaker High School here Nov. 20. The school hosted a farewell ceremony for unit members who left for training in Texas before deploying to Kuwait. Accepting the certificate are (middle right to far right) Senior Allyson Crowley-Duncan, Principal Richard Murphy and North Colonie School District Superintendent D. Joseph Corr.19 Nov, 2013
ORCHARD PARK-- Soldiers of the New York Army National Guard unfurl the American flag during the opening ceremony of the Buffalo Bills versus New York Jets game here on Sunday. More than 150 New York Army National Guard Soldiers were guests of the bills during the game. New York Governor Andrew M. Cuomo also attended the game and visited with Soldiers.15 Nov, 2013
STEWART AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, NEWBURGH, NY -- State Senator William Larkin (left) checks out the 105th Airlift Wing's new C-17 flight simulator with New York Air National Guard Lt. Col. Steve Graff (right) here Nov. 14. The New York Air National Guard's 105th Airlift Wing officially opened its new C-17 Simulator Training Facility on Nov. 14. The system will provide cost effective training for C-17 aircrews assigned to the 105th Airlift Wing. Larkin is also a retired Army lieutenant colonel.13 Nov, 2013
NEW YORK -- Tech. Sgt. Tim Li, a New York National Guard Airman, competes in the ING New York City Marathon here Nov. 3. Li belongs to the 106th Rescue Wing and works for Joint Task Force Empire Shield, a New York National Guard element which is charged with detecting and preventing terrorist operations in the New York City metropolitan area. (courtesy photo)8 Nov, 2013
FORT HOOD, Texas-- General Daniel B. Allyn, commander of Forces Command, speaks with Soldiers of the New York Army National Guard's 642nd Aviation Support Battalion during a visit to here on Thursday, Nov. 7. The Soldiers, who mobilized at the beginning of October, are training here to prepare for a deployment to Kuwait later this year.5 Nov, 2013
WESTHAMPTON BEACH, NY -- New York Air National Guard members of the 106th Rescue Wing begin the work of dismantling an F-102 Delta Dagger which had been a display aircraft at the F.S. Gabreski Air National Guard Base gate here on Oct. 21. The aircraft, which was once flown by the 106th when it was an interceptor group, was damaged during Hurricane Sandy. 106th Rescue Wing maintainers and pararescue men practiced raising the aircraft off the ground and cutting into it as an exercise in rescuing injured aircrew before finishing the demolition.5 Nov, 2013
FORT DRUM-- Leaders of the 174th Fighter Wing and the New York National Guard cut the ribbon officially opening the new $5.1 million Launch and Recovery Hangar housing two MQ-9 aircraft at Wheeler Sack Army Airfield on Tuesday, Nov. 5. Pictured (from left) are: New York Air National Guard Command Chief Master Sgt. Richard King;174th Attack Wing Command Chief Master Sgt. Johhn Youngs; 174th Attack Wing Commander Col. Greg Semmel, Assemblyman Kevin Blankenbush; Major General (retired) Mike Hall, former 174th Fighter Wing Commander and former Adjutant General of New York; and Brig. Gen. Anthony German, Chief of Staff for the New York Air National Guard. The launch and recovery facility will house two MQ-9 aircraft and provide a permanent base for 174th Attack Wing operations at Fort Drum31 Oct, 2013
New York Army National Guard Pvt. Nicole Woodard (right), a human resources specialist with Headquarters Company of the 42nd Combat Aviation Brigade, tightens down the straps of a Sked litter for a Combat Lifesaver course given by the brigade's medics during mobilization training on Oct. 27, 2013.The 42nd CAB will be deploying to Kuwait this winter to conduct joint training exercises with multiple nations in the region and maintain the security of American assets. (NY Army National Guard photo by Spc. Harley Jelis)28 Oct, 2013
ALBANY-- Governor Andrew Cuomo presents a recognition award to a National Guard delegation during the Governor's Conference on Emergency Preparedness held at the Empire State Convention Center and The Egg on Monday, Oct. 28. The award commemorated the National Guard's service in responding to Hurricane Sandy in 2012 and Tropical Storms Lee and Irene in 2011. Receiving the honor were (from right) Lt. Col. Arthur Zegers, commander of the 102nd MP Battalion during it's response to Hurricane Sandy, Command Sgt. Major Thomas Ciampolillo, the Command Sgt. Major of the 102nd MP Battalion, 1st Sgt, Kevin Conklin from the 1108th Ordnance Company (Explosive Ordnance Disposal) and Major General Patrick Murphy, the Adjutant General of New York.18 Oct, 2013
KANDAHAR, AFghanistan -- New York Air National Guard Staff Sgt. Greg Depass, an engineer in the 213th Engineering Installation Squadron, based at Stewart Air National Guard Base, inspects an electrical box for faults or damage. Depass is part of a team that travels to various outposts in southern Afghanistan analyzing and repairing communications and network systems that are necessary for missions.28 Oct, 2013
WASHINGTON-- New York Air National Guard Staff Sgt. Christopher Petersen ( second from left) receives a plaque recognizing him as the USO's National Guardsman of the Year for 2013 from National Guard Vice Chief , Lt. Gen. Joseph Lengyel during the USO's annual Gala on Friday, October 25. Petersen is pararescueman in the 106th Rescue Wing's 103rd Rescue Squadron. He was honored for his heroism in Afghanistan and outstanding performance in training and on the job. Also pictured are General Martin Dempsey, the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Richard Myers, USAF (Ret) and USO CEO and President Sloan Gibson.25 Oct, 2013
LATHAM--Soldiers of the New York Army National Guard's Detachment 20 of the Army's Operational Support Airlift Agency, stand in formation during their mobilization ceremony on Friday, Oct. 25. The Eight aviation Soldiers are deploying to the Djibouti to support Joint Task Force- Horn of Africa with transportation aircraft support. The Detachment flies the C-12 transport aircraft.9 Sep, 2013
LATHAM, N.Y. - New York Army National Guard Sgt. 1st Class Gregory Martin, medical noncommissioned officer of the 42nd Combat Aviation Brigade, prepares for his third deployment with his wife, Donna Mare. The brigade headquarters held its deployment ceremony for more than 150 Soldiers and their families at the Shaker HIgh School here September 7. "We are trained and ready to go to Kuwait," Martin said. "About 70% of the Soldiers have not deployed, so any lessons I have learned I'll have to impart on my soldiers." Army National Guard photo by Spc. J.p. Lawrence, 42nd Infantry Division, New York Army National Guard (RELEASED).18 Oct, 2013
NIAGARA FALLS AIR RESERVE STATION--Master Sgt. Timothy Gemsheim 107th Force Support Squadron conducts accountability for the building members as members of the New York Air National Guard's 107th Airlift Wing and the Air Force Reserve's 914th Airlift Wing joined more than 18 million people world-wide in the Great ShakeOut earthquake drill at 1017 am on October 17th 2013. Members on base practiced as if there was a major earthquake occurring by using the Drop Cover and Hold On method and stayed in position for a minute.19 Oct, 2013
COLONIE-- New York Army National Guard Captains Amy and Brian Bonanno cross the finish line with their son Brian and daughter Grace ( in stroller) during the New York National Guard Family Readiness Council 5K Saturday morning, October 19 at Crossings of Colonie Park. 150 runners took part in the event, which raises money for the Council, a non-profit that helps Guard Soldiers and Airmen and their families.21 Oct, 2013
NEW YORK - New York Army National Guard Lt. Col. Dan Harris, right, thanks his former senior Non-Commissioned Officer, Command Sgt. Maj. Roland Wells for his support of the command team following the change of command ceremony of the 369th Special Troops Battalion (Early Entry Element). Harris turned command over to Lt. Col. Seth Morgulas in a ceremony held at the New York State Armory on 5th Avenue in Harlem Oct. 17 and is tentatively taking an active duty tour at National Guard Bureau. Photo by 1st Sgt. Michelle Lindsay, 369th Sustainment Brigade.8 Oct, 2013
KANDAHAR AIRFIELD, Afghanistan --New York Air National Guard Capt. Michael Gielbeda makes a radio call here. Gielbeda serves as a cyber operations officer and the project engineer of communications for Regional Command South at Kandahar Airfield. Gielbeda is assigned to the 105th Airlift Wing's 213th Engineering Installation Squadron out of Stewart Air National Guard Base in Newburgh, N.Y. At KAF he is assigned to the 335th Signal Command (Theater), of East Point, Ga.16 Oct, 2013
LATHAM, NY -- Kristen Cargill, a representive from Northwestern Mutual Financial Network (left) speaks with New York Army Guard Soldier 1st Lt. John Scott (right) at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s “Hiring Our Heroes” job fair held at the New York National Guard armory here on Oct. 16. Over 200 veterans and service members took the opportunity to meet with about 70 potential employers, including Northwestern Mutual Financial Network, Federal Express, General Electric, Time Warner Cable, National Grid and CVS Pharmacy stores. The New York National Guard has also hosted “Hiring Our Heroes” events across New York state in places like Rochester, Syracuse, Buffalo, Farmingdale, Peekskill and Binghamton.11 Oct, 2013
LATHAM-- New York Air National Guard Brig. General Anthony German presents the Meritorious Service Medal to Capt. James Vendetti during an awards ceremony here on October 10. Vendetti, who is now assigned to the 109th Airlift Wing, was recognized for his four years of service as Joint Operations Center battle captain and acting Chief of Operations for the Joint Operations Directorate at Joint Force Headquarters. During his service he was directly involved in 37 domestic operations missions including Hurricane Sandy, and Tropical Storms Lee and Irene.10 Oct, 2013
FORT DRUM--New York Army National Guard Aviation Soldiers assigned to Detachment 20 of the Army National Guard's Operational Support Aviation Agency take a break after negotiating the tactics course here on August 8. The detachment's pilots and mechanics are responsible for operating the C-12 transport aircraft based at the Army Aviation Support Facility in Latham. They were going through pre-mobilization training to prepare for a deployment to the Horn of Africa later this year.1 Oct, 2013
WESTHAMPTON BEACH-- New York Army National Guard Command Sgt. Major Frank Wicks ( right) speaks with a para-rescue jumper assigned to the 106th Rescue Wing here following a tandem parachute jump on Sept. 24. Wicks and other senior Army and Air Guard NCOs visited the base to get a first hand look at the wing's operations.8 Oct, 2013
WATERVLIET, NY -- Major General Patrick Murphy, the Adjutant General of New York, presents the Meritorious Service Medal to Col. Theresa VanCort during a recognition ceremony on Friday, Oct. 4. Col. Theresa VanCort, a Clifton Park resident and a veteran of the war in Afghanistan, has been picked to serve as Deputy Personnel Officer for the 358,000-member Army National Guard.8 Oct, 2013
SCOTIA N.Y. - New York Air National Guard Staff Sergeants Michael Crisalli (left) and Ernesto Morales (right) from the 109th Security Forces squadron begin the tactical obstacle course as part of warrior week training at Stratton Air National Guard base 20 Sep 2013. The warrior week exercise was conducted to build team-working skills confidence and develop real-world tactical experience for security forces members.4 Oct, 2013
COLONIE-- Members of Headquarters Company, 42nd Combat Aviation Brigade board a charter aircraft at Albany International Airport here on Friday, Oct. 4 as they head to Fort Hood, Texas for post-mobilization training. The Soldiers will train at Fort Hood until November when they will deploy to Kuwait.4 Oct, 2013
LATHAM-- Members of the 42nd Combat Aviation Brigade's Headquarters Company stand in formation Friday morning, Oct. 4, during promotion ceremonies as they prepare to deploy for post mobilization training at Fort Hood, Texas. The Soldiers will train there for about 45 days before deploying to Kuwait.3 Oct, 2013
FORT DRUM-- New York Army National Guard Sgt. Benjamin Harrison briefs his squad from Company D 2-108th Infantry as they prepare to participate in the battalion's best squad competition during training here on Sept. 13. Harrison's squad, comprised of Sgt. Jarin Veasaw, Specialist Yevgen Kozhushko, Specialist Deric Behling, Specialist Anthony Brown, Specialist Robert Clark, Specialist Nathan Lowmaster, Specialist Brian Morrow, and PFC Tavares Quarterman took first place in the event.1 Oct, 2013
GLENVILLE-- New York Army National Guard Major Nicholas Suhr, a Delmar resident, accepts the guidon of Company B of the New York Army National Guard Recruiting and Retention Battalion during Change-of-Command Ceremonies here on Tuesday, Oct. 1. Suhr takes over the company from MAJ Adam Thurber, of Hornell, who will become personnel officer of the 27th Infantry Brigade Combat Team.25 Sep, 2013
LATHAM, N.Y. - New York Army National Guard aircrews of the 3rd Battalion, 142nd Aviation depart here Sep. 25 from the National Guard Army Aviation Flight Facility. Ten aircraft deployed to Fort Hood, Texas, as part of the mobilization of the 42nd Combat Aviation Brigade, scheduled for a Kuwait deployment at the end of the year. The unit will serve one year on active duty, with about nine months in Kuwait.24 Sep, 2013
NEW YORK-- New York Air National Guard Brigadier General Anthony German, second from right, joins fellow Air Force officers outside 30 Rockefeller Plaza, the headquarters of NBC before attending a taping of the Jimmy Fallon Show on Sept. 18. The Air Force officers attended the show as a part of a series of events recognizing the Air Force's 66th birthday accompanying German were, from left: Lt. Col. Elizabeth Ortiz, director of the Air Force National Media Engagement Office; Col Robert Spalding, Air Force Council on Foreign Relations Fellow; and Major Dave Wilson, deputy director of the Air Force National Media Office16 Sep, 2013
SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY -- Army National Guard Command Sgt. Maj. Brunk W. Conley (right) poses with former New York state Command Sgt. Maj. (retired) Robert Van Pelt (left) at the Fifth Annual Capital District of New York AUSA Soldier Recognition Banquet here on Sept. 14. Conley spoke at the banquet and the New York Army National Guard’s 2013 Senior NCO Leadership Seminar earlier in the day. Conley is holding a plaque Van Pelt presented to him for participating in the events. (photo by Staff Sgt. William Valenza, New York Army National Guard)19 Sep, 2013
Col. John Higgins, the commander of the 107th Airlift Wing hands the Medical Group flag to Lt.Col. Emily Desrosier as she assumes command of the Medical Group at the Niagara Falls Reserve Station on Sept, 14, 2013. Desrosier had been serving as Medical Adminstrative Officer and Wing Executive Officer at the 106th Rescue Wing at Westhampton Beach.18 Sep, 2013
New York Army National Guard Sgt. Glenn Follett pauses for a photo before pushing on to a memorial ceremony at Fort Drum, N.Y., Sept. 11. Follett, 44, of Baldwinsville, N.Y., walked about 85 miles from Syracuse N.Y. to Fort Drum in order to commemorate the 9-11 attacks and raise money for the Wounded Warrior project.16 Sep, 2013
WESTHAMPTON BEACH, NY - New York Air National Guard Lt. Col. James W. Nolan assumes command of the 106th Rescue Wing Aircraft Maintenance Squadron from Col. Jeffrey Arndt on September 19, 2013 at FS Gabreski ANG. Col. Arndt will assume full-time duties as the 106th Rescue Wing vice commander.11 Sep, 2013
STEWART AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, NEWBURGH, NY - A New York Air National Guard Honor Guard moves the remains of Staff Sgt. Todd "TJ" Lobraico from an 105th Airlift Wing C-17 to a hearse during a ramp ceremony held here on Wednesday, Sept. 11. Lobraico was killed in action outside Bagram Air Force Base, Afghanistan on Thursday, Sept. 5. He was a member of the 105th Security Forces Squadron.11 Sep, 2013
CAMP SMITH-- New York Army National Guard Captain Jon Santana speaks with New York Life recruiter Fuat Bagsever during a Hire our Heroes job fair on Tuesday, Sept. 10, here. The hiring event is designed to link veterans and members of the Guard and Reserve, as well as military family members, up with employers10 Sep, 2013
AUBURN, NY -- Maj. Michael Fowler (middle left) hands the 102nd Military Police Battalion colors to Command Sgt. Maj. Thomas Ciampolillo, the battalion sergeant major (middle, right) after assuming command of the New York Army National Guard battalion during a change-of-command ceremony here Sept. 8. During the ceremony, Col. James Pabis, the commander of the 153rd Troop Command (left), passed the colors from outgoing commander Lt. Col. Arthur Zegers (right) to Fowler, signifying the change of responsibility and authority for the battalion from one commander to another. Traditionally the unit’s colors marked the location of the commander on the battlefield, and the ceremony allowed the Soldiers to know who their commander was. (photo courtesy of the 102nd Military Police Battalion)9 Sep, 2013
WATERVLIET- WNYT-TV newsman Dan Bazile interviews New York Army National Guard Lt. Christopher Stockton, a Ballston Lake resident and a member of the 42nd Combat Aviation Brigade, during the brigade's farewell ceremony at Shaker High School here on Saturday Sept. 7. The brigade along with members of Company A 3-142nd Aviation and the 642nd Aviation Support Battalion will deploy to Kuwait.10 Sep, 2013
LATHAM, N.Y. - The Army extends its observance of National Suicide Prevention Week to the entire month of September this year, reinforcing its commitment to reduce risk behaviors and incidents of suicide in its ranks, and promote those behaviors for Soldiers to seek help seek. The Army theme for 2013 is “Shoulder to Shoulder: Standing Ready and Resilient.” The Army Suicide Prevention Program is an effort under the Ready and Resilient Campaign to sustain an environment that enhances the resiliency of Soldiers, Army civilians, and family members. Any loss suffered within the Army family is tragic and affects readiness. Each member of the Army community has a role in creating a climate of trust and respect in which every person is able to thrive and achieve their full potential. Knowing and recognizing the risk-factors/warning signs for potential suicidal or risky behaviors and the resources available to them in crisis is key. For more information, visit www.preventsuicide.army.mil.4 Sep, 2013
NEW YORK, N.Y. - New York Army National Guard Soldiers thank Tony Horton from Beach Body Fitness and P90X following a physical fitness workout here on the Intrepid Air and Space Museum Sep. 4. Horton provided fitness instruction for a joint group of more than 45 Soldiers, Sailors and Airmen from area National Guard, Navy and Coast Guard units.4 Sep, 2013
FORT DRUM, NY-- New York Army National Guard Soldiers of the 42nd Combat Aviation Brigade conduct dismounted combat training here on August 21 while preparing for their upcoming deployment to Kuwait. The 42nd CAB will hold a mobilization ceremony at Shaker High School in Watervliet on Saturday, Sept. 7.21 Aug, 2013
LATHAM -- New York Naval Militia Capt. Ten Eyck "Trip" Powell presents the 2013 Josephthal Trophy for the Naval Militia Unit of the Year to the New York Naval Militia's Personnel Action Team. The unit was recognized for the work they did mobilizing Naval Militia personnel during Hurricane Sandy and ensuring that Naval Militia personnel were accounted for. Accepting the award is Commander Dave Hawley of Troy, NY. Also pictured are QM1 Jeff Nuzzaco (Schenectady),MT1 Bob Morisseau (Albany), CPO Art Dott (Albany), and CWO3 Larry Cassidy (Yorktown Heights). The award is named for Naval Militia Rear Admiral Louis M. Josephthal who set up an endowment to recognize Naval Militia members.29 Aug, 2013
FORT DRUM, NY -- Soldiers assigned to 91st Military Police Battalion's protective service detail exit a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter during a joint training exercise with the New York Army National Guard 's B Company 3rd Battalion 142nd Aviation Regiment (Assault Helicopter). The PSD was conducting hot and cold load training to better prepare themselves for a possible deployment to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.28 Aug, 2013
FORT DRUM, NY-- Soldiers of the New York Army National Guard's 42nd Combat Aviation Brigade and 642nd Aviation Support Battalion set up a checkpoint during mounted combat exercises here in August. The units conducted pre-moibilization training to prepare for a deployment to Kuwait later this year.22 Aug, 2013
FORT DRUM-- New York Army National Guard Soldiers of Company A, 642nd Aviation Support Battalion, negotiated obstacles on the tactical lanes training course here as part of their premobilization training on August 22. The battalion's Soldiers are preparing to deploy to Kuwait later this year.27 Aug, 2013
STEWART AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, Newburg-- New York Air National Guard Tech. Sgt.Al Alverado and New York Air National Guard Staff Sgts Liberty Herter and Tereen Oestricher with the 105th Airlift Wing pick up donated school supplies for their children during a 7th annual Operation Homefront Back-to-School Brigade event held at Stewart Air National Guard Base Newburgh NY August 23 2013.26 Aug, 2013
NIAGARA FALLS AIR RESERVE STATION--Chicago Blackhawks right wing Patrick Kane holds up the Stanley Cup in front of a C-130 just before entering the hangar to greet members of the New York Air National Guard's 107th Airlift Wing and Air Force Reserve's 914 Airlift Wing on Saturday Aug. 24, 2013. Kane, A Buffalo native, brought the National Hockey League's championship trophey to the base to share with Western New York military members.25 Aug, 2013
TARRYTOWN, N.Y. -- New York Army National Guard Sgt. Manual Tressandy, assigned to Company B, 101st Signal Battalion, talks about employment opportunities with Garry Harvey, head of veterans recruitment for FDM Group in New York. More than 200 Soldiers from the battalion conducted their initial Yellow Ribbon Reintegration program here to learn about services, programs, benefits and opportunities for Citizen Soldiers returning from overseas service. The 101st Signal Battalion returned from a year-long deployment to Afghanistan earlier this summer. The Yellow Ribbon program is a day-long effort to familiarize Soldiers and their family members with a variety of helpful contacts and information related to their return home. U.S. National Guard photo by Col. Richard Goldenberg, Joint Force Headquarters, New York National Guard. (RELEASED)26 Aug, 2013
CAMP SMITH TRAINING SITE -- New York Guard Sgt. 1st Class David Moat observes Sgt. Adrian Ramos receive a radio transmission on the PRC 77 VHF frequency radio while taking part in a communications field training exercise, here, Aug. 22. New York Guard Annual training is a week-long summer training period, organized to maximize troop efficiency by creating real world scenarios to prepare for disaster response. The New York Guard is the state's volunteer force which augments the New York National Guard.21 Aug, 2013
FORT DRUM-- A 42nd Combat Aviation Brigade Soldier draws a bead on his target during marksmenship training at Fort Drum on August 10. The Soldiers of the 42nd Combat Aviation Brigade, the 642nd Aviation Support Battalion and Company A 3-142nd Assault Helicopter Battalion are training at Fort Drum to prepare for a deployment to Kuwait later this year.13 Aug, 2013
LATHAM-- Brig. Gen. Raymond Shields,Director of Joint Staff for the New York National Guard thanks Federal Judge Mae D'Agostino for speaking to members of the Division and Military Affairs staff on Tuesday, August 13 to mark Women's Equality Day. D'Agostino, a former Albany-area lawyer, serves as United States District Judge for the Northern District of New York.19 Aug, 2013
FORT DRUM, N.Y.-- Major General Harry Miller, the Commanding General of the 42d Infantry Division, speaks with Soldiers of the 42nd Combat Aviation Brigade and the 642nd Aviation Support Battalion during Pre-Mobilization training being here on Sunday, August 18. Miller visited the soldiers at the various stations such as first aid, Commo, Land Nav and other Warrior Tasks as part of the PMT. The Soldiers are preparing for a deployment to Kuwait later this year.15 Aug, 2013
FARMINGDALE-- Veterans and National Guard and Reserve job seekers meet with representatives of more than 90 companies seeking to hire veterans and reserve forces members during the Hire Our Heroes job fair the New York National Guard hosted at the Farmingdale Armed Forces Reserve Center on Wednesday, August 14. The Hire our Heroes program is sponsored by the United States Chamber of Commerce and is designed to match veterans and members of the Guard and Reserve,as well as military family members, up with companies interested in tapping into their skills.14 Aug, 2013
YAPHANK NY -A New York Air National Guard firefighter assigned to the 106th Rescue Wing based at FS Gabreski Air National Guard Base in Westhampton Beach NY ducks under flames during training at the Suffolk County Fire Academy here during their monthly drill August 6th through the 8th 2013. The firefighters reviewed basic skills in a realistic training environment under the eye of civilian firefighter trainers.13 Aug, 2013
SYRACUSE--Major Scott Jessop accepts the colors of the New York Army National Guards 427th Brigade Support Battalion from Col. Joseph Bieler commander of the 27th Infantry Brigade Combat during change-of-command ceremonies on Friday August 9 at the Thompson Road Armory here. Jessop took over command of the battalion from Lt. Col. Stephen M. Bousquet who led the unit during its 2012 deployment to Kuwait and Afghanistan.9 Aug, 2013
VALHALLA N.Y.- New York Army National Guard Soldiers from the decontamination element of the Chemical Biological Radiological and Nuclear enterprise prepare a simulated casualty for decontamination during a disaster response exercise here Aug. 9 at the Westchester County Fire Training Center. The CBRN Enterprise part of the Homeland Response Force Region II trained here this week to prepare its Soldiers and Airmen to extract casualties from a contaminated incident provide decontamination to both ambulatory and litter patients and conduct medical triage to assist civil authorities. The decon element is supported by the New York Army National Guards 222nd Chemical Company based at Fort Hamilton N.Y. U.S. Army National Guard photo by Col. Richard Goldenberg Army National Guard (RELEASED).9 Aug, 2013
STRATTON AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, Scotia--Airman assigned to the 139th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron of the New York Air National Guard's 109th Airlift Wing work alongside civilian agencies to carry a simulated patient, a Civil Air Patrol cadet, to an LC-130 aircraft Aug. 8, 2013. The patient transport is part of an exercise, which highlighted the vital function of the 109AW and 139AES in the National Disaster Medical System and homeland defense mission as well as the cooperation and coordination between the 109AW and New York state civilian medical and emergency management assets.30 Jul, 2013
FORT AP HILL--PFC Ryan Seigel and SPC John Dolengewicz (B Co, 2nd Plt, 2nd Squad) conduct an evaluation of a casualty during the "Fighting 69th Squad Stakes Competition" medical task station. SGT Philip Browning scores their performance as they conduct one of 10 medical tasks that squads must complete as a part of the day-long challenge. The winning team receives the bragging rights as "Best Squad" as well as individual Iron Mike trophies and recognition from the Battalion Commander and Battalion Command Sergeant Major.7 Aug, 2013
SCHENECTADY-- Major General Patrick Murphy,the Adjutant General of New York, examines a turbine while visting General Electric's Power Systems here on July 31. Murphy spoke with GE officals about hiring veterans and toured the plant. GE is a backer of Employer Support for the Guard and Reserve.6 Aug, 2013
STEWART AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, Newburgh--U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Crystal Grafer a specially trained victim advocate with the 105th Airlift Wing of the New York Air National Guard leads a personalized training session on sexual assault prevention & response with air guardsmen inside a 105AW hangar on Sunday, Aug. 4 2013.17 Jul, 2013
STEWART AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, NEWBURGH, N.Y. - New York Air National Guard Brig. Gen. Anthony German, chief of air staff division of the New York Air National Guard, addresses a question about deployments to attendees at the 3rd Annual NYANG State Command Chief Master Sergeants Enlisted Call here July 17 2013. Photo by Tech. Sgt. Michael OHalloran, 105th Airlift Wing. (Released)31 Jul, 2013
FORT AP HILL Va.- New York Army National Guard Pfc. Ryan Seigel standing and Spc. John Dolengewicz kneeling at the mock casualty both from 2nd Squad 2nd Platoon Company B 1st Battalion 69th Infantry conduct a medical evaluation of a simulated casualty during the Fighting 69th Squad Stakes Competition medical task station during annual training here July 30. Sgt. Philip Browning at left scores their performance as they conduct one of 10 medical tasks that squads must complete as a part of the day-long challenge. The competition develops esprit-de-corps and camaraderie in a grueling course that tests their mental and physical fitness as they negotiate obstacles and scenarios that involve completion of warrior tasks while maintaining security and movement. The competition started at 5 a.m. with a squad run in full battle gear and a pack inspection to standardize load and equipment for the challenge. The Warrior tasks associated with the lane incorporated Shoot Move Communicate and Survive as well as other infantry battle drills (react to contact establish security perform actions as a member of a mounteddismounted patrol and evaluate a casualty). The winning team receives bragging rights as Best Squad in the battalion as well as individual Iron Mike trophies and recognition from the battalion commander and command sergeant major. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Lt. Col. James Gonyo/RELEASED)30 Jul, 2013
CAMP SMITH, N.Y. -- New York Army National Guard Soldiers compete in the New York Army National Guard's first Combatives Tournament, held here July 27. Over a dozen New York Army National Guard troops took part in the tournament, which was organized by the New York Army National Guard's 106th Regional Training Institute. Winners may have an opportunity to represent New York State in the All Army National Guard Combatives Tournament to be held at Ft. Benning, Ga. in 2014.28 Jul, 2013
SARATOGA SPRINGS-- Major General Patrick Murphy, the Adjutant General of New York joins Lance Ingmar, President of the Friends of the New York State Military Museum and Courtney Burns, the curator and acting manager of the Military Museum in officially opening the "Empire for Union" exhibit which commemorates the Civil War. The exhibit highlights the unique Civil War items New York has been collecting since 1863.26 Jul, 2013
FS GABRESKI ANGB, Westhampton Beach, NY-Acting Secretary of the Air Force Eric Fanning speaks to 300 members of the New York Air National Guard's 106th Rescue Wing during a visit to the unit on Thursday, July 25. Fanning outlined the challenges facing the Air Force, urged Airmen to combat sexual harassment and assault, and took questions from the floor during his presentation.24 Jul, 2013
STEWART AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, Newburgh--Col. Timothy LaBarge, commander of the New York Air National Guard's 105th Airlift Wing welcomes home members of the 105th Base Security Squadron on Tuesday, July 23, after the Airmen returned from an eight month deployment to Afghanistan. Twenty-nine Airmen took part in the mission, the sixth deployment to a combat zone of the unit's Airmen.27 Jun, 2013
FIRE ISLAND-- Members of the New York Naval Militia take a break during boat coxswain training off Long Island on Wednesday, June 26 aboard Patrol Boat 280. Shown are (left rear) Petty Officer 3 Antonia Ribeiro, (right rear) Petty Officer 2 Mayerlinkow Theus, ( from left middle row ) Petty Officer 1 Charles Golding, Petty Officer 1 Ariel Gutierrez, Petty Officer 2 Paul LaLanne, and Senior Chief Charles Dick. Chief Bill Towart is kneeling in the middle.19 Jul, 2013
GLENVILLE-- New York Army National Guard Sgt. Joshua Young, a member of the 1108th Ordnance Company (Explosive Ordnance Disposal) receives the Bronze Star with V device for valor during a ceremony at the Scotia-Glenville Armed Forces Reserve Center here on Friday, July 19. Brig. General Michael Swezey, the commander of the 53rd Troop Command presented Young with the medal. He was recognized for saving the life of a fellow Soldier while under continuous enemy fire on March 16, 2012 while he was serving in Afghanistan with an EOD battalion from Fort Drum, NY.17 Jul, 2013
VOLK FIELD, Wisconsin--Senior Airman Sergey Klebleyev, from the New York Air National Guard's 106th Civil Engineering Squadron, clears a fallen tree with a front-end loader during a route clearing exercise at Volk Field in Camp Douglas, Wis., July 15. The training was part of Patriot Exercise 2013, a National Guard domestic response exercise that included both National Guard and Reserve units from 26 states and local civilian agencies.17 Jul, 2013
LATHAM-- Major General Patrick Murphy, the Adjutant General of New York, and other representatives of the New York National Guard pose with the staff of Siena Barber Shop following the presentation of an Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Patriotic Service Certificate to the shop and its employees. The award recognizes the businesses commitment to serving members of the military. Each employee of the shop received a token of appreciation as well.26 Jun, 2013
SARATOGA SPRING-- Chris Morton (left) assistant curator at the New York State Military Museum here and another museum employee hang a painting as they prepare the new "Empire for Union" exhibit at the museum. The new exhibit, open as the nation prepares to mark the 150th anniversary of the Battle of Gettysburg, tells the story of New York in the Civil War.6 Jul, 2013
FORT PLAIN, N.Y. - Fort Plain residents Gary Lavalley (left) and Marie Robinson (middle) watch New York Army National Guard Soldier Spc. Brendan Miller bulldoze rocks and other flood debris from Otsquago Creek here July 4. Miller belongs to the Buffalo-based 152nd Engineer Company. New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo called up the company and other Soldiers of the 204th Engineer Battalion to remove flood debris and prevent further flood damage in the Mohawk Valley. In addition to other missions, the engineer Soldiers removed an island of debris which had choked the Otsquago Creek’s flow. Miller is from Buffalo.11 Jul, 2013
KABUL, Afghanistan--New York Army National Guard Major William Lecates, a doctor assigned to the Medical Command clinic at Watervliet Arsenal, poses with an Afghan physician who runs one of Afghanistan's few dialysis clinics. Lecates, a Cooperstown resident, is the doctor in charge of Troop Medical Clinic 1 at U.S. forces headquarters in Kabul.10 Jul, 2013
LATHAM, N.Y. -- 102nd Military Police Battalion Commander Lt. Col. Arthur Zegers (center) passes the 206th Military Police Company guidon to Capt. Carlos Nazario (right), signifying Nazario's assumption of command of the company in a ceremony here July 9. Nazario assumed command from Capt. Kevin Jusza (left) the outgoing commander. The New York Army National Guard's 206th Military Police Company has served in Iraq and responded to Hurricane Sandy and recent Mohawk Valley flooding. Traditionally the ceremony allows the Soldiers to see who they will follow on the battlefield as the symbol of their unit goes from the old commander to the new one.9 Jul, 2013
Happy Birthday to the U.S. Army Warrant Officer Corps! Warrant Officers trace their lineage to July 9, 1918 when Congress established the Army Mine Planter Service as part of the Coastal Artillery Corps. A total of 40 Warrant Officers were authorized to serve as masters, mates, chief engineers, and assistant engineers on each mine planting vessel in an Army War Department Bulletin less than two weeks later on July 22, 1918. Although only one rank of Warrant Officer was authorized by Congress, in effect, three grades were created because of their varying levels of pay authorized for masters, 1st mates, 2nd mates, and marine engineer personnel. The Army created the distinctive insignia of the Warrant Officer in May 1921. The insignia of the Warrant Officer Corps consisted of an eagle rising with wings displayed, adapted from the great seal of the United States. The eagle is standing on two arrows, which symbolize the military arts and sciences for which Warrant Officers draw their specialties. Warrant Officers of the Army Tank Corps were the first to wear this new insignia. Today’s Warrant Officers are the Army’s specialists in a variety of fields, including artillery, military intelligence, aviation, maintenance, medical, logistics and administration. Pictured above, Chief Warrant Officer 3 Charles Eldridge (left), assigned to the 27th Infantry Combat Brigade Team assist Master Sgt. William Yohn of the 42nd Infantry Division install secure communications data into a vehicle radio in October 2011. Photo by Spc. James Roa.6 Jul, 2013
GERMAN FLATTS, N.Y.-- Pfc. Joshua Haller, a member of the New York Army National Guard’s 827th Engineer Company, uses a hydraulic excavator to remove a boulder and other flood debris from Fulmer Creek here July 3. About 24 hours after being called up by New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo, Soldiers of the unit, based in Horseheads, N.Y., began removing flood debris from Fulmer Creek and Fords Creek to stabilize the streams and prevent further flood damage. The Soldiers also restored Fords Creek to its pre-flood course, increased its flow, and cleared debris from a mile-long section of Fulmer Creek. Haller is from Odessa, N.Y. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. 1st Class Raymond Drumsta, Joint Force Headquarters, New York Army National Guard)5 Jul, 2013
FORT PLAIN, N.Y. -- New York National Guard engineers from Task Force Engineer, a mixed force comprised of forces of the 204th Engineer Battalion, 206th Military Police Company and 1427th Transportation Company assist with debris removal and widening the Otsquago Creek here July 5th following the Guard's recovery support to flash flooding in the Mohawk Valley. The National Guard's initial response force of more than 50 Soldiers on June 28 grew to some 250 Soldiers on July 3 to support local communities in their recovery.4 Jul, 2013
GERMAN FLATTS, N.Y. -- New York National Guard Military Police Soldiers from Task Force Engineer, a mixed force comprised of forces of the 204th Engineer Battalion, 206th Military Police Company and 1427th Transportation Company provide support to residential debris removal operations here July 4th following the Guard's recovery support to flash flooding in the Mohawk Valley. The National Guard's initial response force of more than 50 Soldiers on June 28 grew to some 250 Soldiers on July 3 to support local communities in their recovery. U.S. Army photo by Maj. Sean Flynn, New York National Guard Joint Force Headquarters. (RELEASED)1 Jul, 2013
GERMAN FLATTS, N.Y. -- New York Army National Guard Soldiers of the 2nd Battalion, 108th Infantry here near Mohawk, N.Y. June 29 load their trucks to deliver food and water to distribution points and assist local communities following flash floods in the Mohawk Valley. More than 50 Soldiers and a dozen heavy vehicles remain ready to assist local communities as forecasts indicate more rain this week.28 Jun, 2013
MOHAWK-- New York Army National Guard Soldiers Staff Sgt. Gary Matt from the 2nd Battalion 108th Infanty and Staff Sgt. Joe Bolton from the 206th Military Police Company tow a surplus humvee used by the Village of Mohawk as a rescue vehicle out of a garage where it was submerged in five feet of water so they can slave start it. The Guardsmen were part of the state response to flash flooding in the Mohawk Valley ordered by Gov. Andrew Cuomo.27 Jun, 2013
LATHAM-- Members of the New York National Guard Teen Council, a program sponsored by the National Guard Family Programs Office, pose for a photograph outside Division of Military and Naval Affairs Headquarters before they headed to Lake Placid on Thursday for a four day leadership training event. The teens were learning the Seven Habits of Highly Effective Teens while enjoying the adventure venues at Lake Placid.24 Jun, 2013
FORT DRUM--Major General Patrick Murphy, the Adjutant General of New York, congratulates Major General Harry Miller, the commander of the 42nd Infantry Division, after he "pinned on" Millers two star rank during a ceremony here on Monday, June 24. Miller, a two-time veteran of the Iraq War and one-time garrison commander of Fort Drum, took command of the 42nd Infantry Division in April.24 Jun, 2013
BUFFALO-- Lt. Col. Jamey Barcomb (right) receives the colors of the 27th Brigade Special Troops Battalion from Lt. Col. Joseph Biehler, the commander of the 27th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, during Change-of-Command ceremonies on Saturday, Jan. 22, at the Connecticut Street Armory. Barcomb replaces Lt. Col. Mike Murphy as the unit commander.21 Jun, 2013
BEACON-- Soldiers of the 1156th Engineer Company put the finishing touches on the the restored Beacon Fire Tower on top of Beacon Mountain. The company constructed a reproduction ranger cabin next to the tower and put some finishing touches on the fire tower, which they restored in 2012 during annual training.20 Jun, 2013
COHOES, N.Y. --New York Army National Guard Soldiers of the 1156th Engineer Company stand behind their final project here, a replica engineer castle, as part of their final efforts in a community project here June 13 to restore a former Erie Canal lock into a public park. The Soldiers provided a week-long effort as part of their annual training each year since 2011 to remove debris from the abandoned lock, overgrown since 1911. The City of Cohoes partnered with the Guard engineers to remove the debris, install drainage and develop a walking path as part of the lock’s conversion to a public site. U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Patricia Austin, New York Army National Guard. (RELEASED)18 Jun, 2013
FORT LEAVENWORTH, Kan. -- New York Army National Guard Col. Mark Leahey, the Chief of Fires for the 42nd Infantry Division Headquarters, based in Troy, N.Y., uses Voice Over Internet Protocol to discuss targeting during a Warfighter simulation briefing June 12, 2013 at the Mission Training Complex, Ft. Leavenworth, Kansas. Soldiers of the 42nd Infantry Division Headquarters began a corps-level Warfighter training exercise here at the Mission Training Complex (MTC) June 2, 2013.18 Jul, 2013
WATERVLIET - Army Colonel Mark F. Migaleddi passes the colors to Colonel Lee H. Schiller Jr. during a change of command ceremony held at the historic Watervliet Arsenal Thursday, July 18, 2013. Col. Schiller is the 58th commander of the 200-year-old Arsenal known as "America's Cannon Factory".17 Jun, 2013
NEW YORK--New York Army National Guard Pvt Justin Paradiso, a TOW gunner in the 1st Battalion 69th Infantry (right) joins Command Sgt. Maj. Cal Christensen of the US Army Military Academy Band(left), and Gen. John Campbell, 34th Army Vice Chief of Staff (center) as they celebrate the 238th Army birthday during a cake cutting ceremony, June 14, in Times Square, New York City. Traditionally the oldest and youngest Soldiers present at an Army Birthday event cut the cake. Paradiso, who enlisted in the New Yotk Army NAtional Guard in 2012 was born in 1994.11 Jun, 2013
WATERVLIET-- Major General Patrick Murphy, the Adjutant General of New York joined Watervliet Arsenal Commander Col. Mark Migaleddi in saluting the Capital District's commitment to supporting the arsenal at an Army Community Covenant event on Tuesday, June 11. The Watervliet Arsenal, which was founded in 1813 to provide supplies for American forces fighting the British on the New York frontier in the War of 1812, is celebrating its 200th year in July. The New York National Guard has more than 300 military and civilian employees stationed at the arsenal including the Army National Guard's military personnel office, central issue facility, medical command and recruiting command.5 Jun, 2013
RYE BROOK N.Y. - Children from the New York Army National Guards 101st Expeditionary Signal Battalion display welcome home banners for their deployed parent following the New York National Guard Family Program Strong Bonds event here June 2 at the Doral Arrowwood Conference Center. The weekend event supported 18 spoused and families of deployed Soldiers of the 101st Signal Battalion due home from Afghanistan in late June and early July. The retreat encouraged discussion about issues families faced during the deployment and how families can help their Soldier with reintegration once they return. The battalion mobilized some 450 Soldiers in September 2012 and provided communications support for the past nine months in Afghanistan for Operation Enduring Freedom. Photo by Chaplain Candidate (1st Lt.) Mark Getman 3rd Battalion 142nd Aviation.6 Jun, 2013
CORTLANDT MANOR--The new colors of Camp Smith Training Site are unfurled on the highest point of ground on the post, overlooking the Hudson River, during a special Unit Colors Uncasing and Repatching Ceremony on June 3rd 2013. Camp Smith Post Commander LTC Epp and Camp Smith Command Sgt. Major Thomas Seifert repatched the soldiers assigned to CSTS with their new unit patch after the Unit Colors uncasing.5 Jun, 2013
HECKSCHER STATE PARK, EAST ISLIP, N.Y. - New York Army National Guard Soldiers assigned to Company F 427th Brigade Support Battalion based in Farmingdale serve meals for fellow troops here June 2 during the Armys regional Philip A. Connelly Food Service Competition. More than a dozen Cooks and Soldiers from the Foxtrot Company food service section setup their field kitchen and prepared meals for review by a team of Army evaluators. The New York Soldiers were evaluated across ten categories of food service including field storage of rations food safety field kitchen setup appearance and attitude of food service staff use of cooking equipment meal service and with the highest weighted grading meal preparation and quality. Courtesy photo.5 Jun, 2013
BOSTON-- New York Army National Guard Sgt. Saul Rodriguez, a member of the Fort Hamilton, Brooklyn-based 24th Weapons of Mass Destruction Civil Support Team, poses with Gen.Frank Grass, Chief of the National Guard Bureau and Major General L. Scott Rice, the Adjutant General of Massachusetts following a coin presentation ceremony in the Massachusetts State House on June 3. Rodriguez was one of five 24th CST members who were augmenting the Massachusetts National Guard's security operation during the Boston Marathon on April 15 when a bomb went off at the finish line. Rodriguez was one of 14 Soldiers presented Army Commendation Medals by Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick in a symbolic gesture of thanks to the 1,300 Guard Soldiers and Airmen who participated in the response and the manhunt that followed.4 Jun, 2013
CAMP SMITH TRAINING SITE, CORTLANDT MANOR, N.Y. -- Members of the New York Air National Guard's 107th Airlift Wing achieved top honors for the fourth straight year in The Adjutant General Marksmanship Competition held here June 1-2. The team won many individual awards as well. WIth their awards are from left to right, 1st Sgt. Randal Schenefiel, Tech. Sgt. Christopher Doherty, Tech. Sgt. Ryan Mang and Master Sgt. Edward Stefik. The team placed first in the General George Patton Pistol match and the National Guard Infantry Team Rifle match.3 Jun, 2013
STEWART AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE --U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Milyn Kane a medical technician with the 139th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron, of the New York Air National Guard's 10-9th Airlift Wing, secures a simulated patient for airlift in the cargo bay of a 105th Airlift Wing C-17 Globemaster III transport aircraft during the National Disaster Medical System exercise Golden Eagle III at Stewart Air National Guard Base, N.Y. June 1, 2013 . The NDMS tests the ability of local medical providers to participate in the movement of patients from areas affected by a disaster to other locations for medical treatment.29 May, 2013
LATHAM--Looking for an employer interested in hiring members of the New York National Guard? Now there’s an App for that! The New York National Guard Job Zone web page can now be accessed from iPhones, iPads, and iPods with an application available from iTunes. The new App lets you check on jobs that are available from any location. Scan the QR code to acces the App now.15 May, 2013
SARATOGA SPRINGS-- Major General Patrick Murphy, the Adjutant General, presents Michael Aikey, the manager of the New York State Military Museum and Veterans Research Center, with his retirement certificate following a retirement luncheon held on April 30. Aikey has managed the museum since its creation more than a decade ago.The museum houses over 10,000 artifacts dating from the Revolutionary War to Iraq and Afghanistan that relate to New York State’s military forces, the state’s military history and the contributions of New York’s veterans.21 May, 2013
TROY--Members of the New York National Guard Youth Program plant a rainbow of red geraniums, yellow marigolds and blue lobelias to celebrate Armed Forces Day May 18 at the headquarters 42nd Infantry Division Headquarters in Troy, N.Y. The NYNG Youth Program aims to support children of military-affiliated members and planted flowers in Troy and in Latham, N.Y.16 May, 2013
CAMP SMITH TRAINING SITE, CORTLANDT MANOR, N.Y. -- Connecticut Army National Guard Pfc. Steven Birge, the Conecticut Army National Guard Soldier of the Year, fires downrange during the weapons qualification phase of the Regional Best Warrior Competition here at Camp Smith, N.Y. May 15. New York hosted sixteen Army National Guard Soldiers for the National Guard Northeast Region competition May 15-16. U.S. Army photo by Sgt. 1st Class Debbi Newton, 130th Public Affairs Detachment, Conn. Army National Guard.13 May, 2013
STEWART AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, Newburg- New York Air National Guard U.S. Staff Sgt. Raymond Ortiz, an aircraft maintainer, explained the C-5M refurbishment program to U.S. Air Force General Paul J. Selva the commnander of the Air Mobility Command, during a visit to the base on Friday, May 10. Also on hand were Maj Gen Verle L. Johnston commander of the New York Air National Guard, Col Timothy J. LaBarge commander 105 Airlift Wing, and Chief Master Sgt. Richard A. Andy Kaiser air mobility command chief .14 May, 2013
VICENZA, Italy --New York Army National Guard Col. Reginald Sanders (left) the commander of the 369th Sustainment Brigade, joins Dr. Jeannot Essono Engueng (center) from the Military Forces of Central Africa, and Col. Frederick Ndjonkep, a member of the Military Operations Command of Cameroon during an exercise planning conference here in April. The 369th Sustainment Brigade has previously participated in exercises in Mali.10 May, 2013
NEW YORK -- New York Army National Guard Maj. Gen. Patrick Murphy, The Adjutant General congratulates Spc. Maurisa Massiah prior to her mobilization ceremony for active duty supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. 27 Soldiers of the New York Army National Guard's 27th Finance Company said goodbye to friends and family at the unit mobilization ceremony at the American Legion Post 131 in Whitestone on Friday, May 10 as the Soldiers prepare to leave for a deployment overseas. The Soldiers will conduct predeployment training at Joint Base Mcguire-Dix-Lakehurst in N.J. and are expected to redeploy home in the spring of 2014. U.S. Army photo by Col. Richard Goldenberg, NY National Guard Joint Force Headquarters (Released).10 May, 2013
LATHAM-- Retired Army Sgt. Major Nancy Mathis speaks to Army National Guard Soldiers enrolled in SHARPS-- Sexual Harrassment/Assault Response and Prevention-- program training at Division of Military and Naval Affairs Headquarters on Thursday, May 9. Fifty-nine National Guard NCOs and officers from New York, Connecticut, Oklahoma, North Dakota and Minnesota are taking the two-week class here. The class gives leaders the insight and information they need to implement programs designed to create a professional workplace in their units. New York Army National Guard currently has 106 SHARP-trained advisors in its units.9 May, 2013
LATHAM-- Army National Guard Spec Andrew Oliver directs traffice around vehicles assigned to the 206th Military Police Company outside Division of Military and Naval Affairs Headquarters on Thursday, May 9. The company was lining up vehicles to prepare for a road march to Fort Indiantown Gap, PA, where the Soldiers will conduct annual training.8 May, 2013
LATHAM--Soldiers of the New York Army National Guard's 204th Engineer Battalion mount an AH-1S Cobra Attack helicopter once used by New York Army National Guard aviators on a stand outside Division of Military and Naval Affairs headquarters here. The engineers used one of their mobile cranes to mount the aircraft. The display chopper was repainted at the Mobilization And Training Equipment Site (MATES) run by the New York National Guard at Fort Drum.7 May, 2013
FS GABRESKI AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, Westhampton Beach-- Airmen of the New York Air National Guard's 106th Security Forces Squadron conduct crowd control training on Sunday, May 5 during the 106th Rescue Wing's weekend drill here. Members of the 106th's recruit flight portrayed rioters during the training session.26 Apr, 2013
KANDAHAR- New York Army National Guard Soldiers assigned to Rochester’s Detachment 1, Company B, 3rd Battalion 126th Aviation (Heavy Lift) load CH-47 helicopters onto a C-5 Galaxy as they prepare to return home to the United States following a nine-month deployment in Afghanistan on April 20. The helicopters arrived at the Army Aviation Support Facility in Rochester on April 22. The Soldiers return to the United States for outprocessing at Fort Hood in May.1 May, 2013
ALBANY--Members of the New York National Guard Counterdrug Task Force pose with members of community anti-drug coalition groups at the conclusion of week-long training session conduction at Division of Military and Naval Affairs headquarters on March 7. The Soldiers and Airmen are part of a 14-member Civil Operations team tasked to work with community anti-drug programs to help them function more affectively. The training was conducted by Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America, a group established in 1992. The training focused conducting community assessments, collecting data and conducting problem analysis. The training is designed to help both military personnel and civilian anti-drug group employees determine the root causes of substance abuse in communities.The training covered the first week of the three week CADCA National Academy program. The training was sponsored by the New York State Office of Alcholism and Substance abuse services.30 Apr, 2013
RONKONKOMA-- New York Army National Guard Soldiers assigned to Army Aviation Support Facility #1 here work togther with airmen from the 105th Airlift Wing to load a UH-60 Blackhawk helicopter on board a New York Air National Guard C-17 as the helicopter is shipped away for depot maintenance at the Theater Aviation Maintenance and Sustainment Group in Groton Connecticut at the on April 26.29 Apr, 2013
NEW YORK - New York Army National Guard Spc. Frankie Aguilar of the 1st Battalion, 69th Infantry Regiment watches as his daughter Jadalyse plays with his unit patch during a Freedom Salute Ceremony April 28 in Queens, N.Y. Aguilar, a Brentwood resident, has just returned from serving in Kuwait. The ceremony, held 90 days after Soldiers returned to their homes, honored both returning Soldiers and the families, and employers friends who supported them. Photo by Spc. J.p. Lawrence, 42nd Infantry Division.25 Apr, 2013
Desiree Dancy, Vice President of Corporate Human Resources for the New York Times Company signs a Statement of Support for the Guard and Reserve pledge as James Rebholz, National Chairman of the Committee for Employer Support for the Guard and Reserve looks on. The April 23 signing reaffirmed the New York Times commitment to hire and support Guardsmen and Reservists when the serve the country. New York National Guard Director of Joint Staff Brig. Gen. Raymond Shields (second from right) and New York Army National Guard Command Sgt. Major Frank Wicks ( right) represented the National Guard during the event.8 Apr, 2013
CITI FIELD, New York -- Members of the New York Guard, the state’s volunteer defense force, stand in formation on April 1 during Opening Day ceremonies here which honored Hurricane Sandy responders. The New York Guard assisted in the response to Hurricane Sandy, along with members of the Army and Air National Guard and the New York Naval Militia.22 Apr, 2013
KANDAHAR, Afghanistan- New York Army National Guard Sgt. John Stormm, a member of Detachment 1 Company B 3rd Battalion 126th Aviation (Heavy Lift) receives the Purple Heart and the Air Medal from Lt. Col. Mike Higginbotham, the commander of Task Force Knighthawk during award ceremonies here on April 18. Stormm received a bullet wound during a resupply mission in Afghanistan. The Soldiers of the Rochester-based detachment are preparing to return to the United States in May after a nine-month long rotation in Afghanistan.19 Apr, 2013
U.S. Central Command Army Command Sgt. Maj. Frank A. Grippe congratulates New York Air National Guard Senior Airman Jeremy Miter on his recent completion of Joint Tactical Air Controller (JTAC) training as a member of the 274th Air Support Operations Squadron at Hancock Field in Syracuse NY on April 18, 2013. Grippe was at Hancock Field to get an overview of the current operations of the 174th Attack Wing and the 27th Infantry Brigade Combat Team both of which are located on Hancock Field.19 Apr, 2013
FORT HAMILTON, Brooklyn--U.S. Representative Michael Grimm meets with members of the New York National Guard’s Weapons of Mass Destruction Civil Support team here on Friday, April 19. The 22 Army and Air National Guard members are trained to detect and identify chemical, biological and radiological agents when requested by civil authorities. Grimm, who represents the Fort Hamilton area presented the Guardsmen with a Congressional Proclaimation thanking them for their service during Hurricane Sandy and during the response to the Boston Marathon Bombing on April 15. A team from the 24th CST was already on hand that day to assist their Massachusetts counterparts.19 Apr, 2013
ROCHESTER-- New York Army National Guard Sgt 1st Class Byron Barnes speaks with a representative of FEDEX during the Hire our Heroes job fair held by the United States Chamber of Commerce and hosted by the New York National Guard on Wednesday, April 17 at the Patriot Way Armory in Rochester. More than 60 employers participated in the event.17 Apr, 2013
DAVIS-MONTHAN AIR FORCE BASE, Arizona--New York Air National Guard HH-60 PAvehawk helicopters assigned to the 106th Rescue Wing prepare to conduct aerial refueling operations with an Air Force HC-130J Combat King II aircraft assigned to the 79th Rescue Squadron here on , April 8, 2013, during exercise Angel Thunder 2013. Angel Thunder is a joint service, interagency and multinational combat search and rescue exercise designed to provide training for personnel recovery assets in a variety of scenarios to simulate deployment conditions and contingencies.16 Apr, 2013
WEST POINT-- Representatives of the 42nd Infantry Division’s brigades stand in formation on Saturday, April 13, as they prepare for division change of command ceremonies here at historic Trophy Point. Major General Steven Wickstrom transferred command of the division-- which has elements in New York, New Jersey, Vermont, New Hampshire and Massachusetts-- to Brig. General Harry Miller during the ceremony. Trophy Point gets its name from the historic cannon captured in the Mexican and other wars and displayed there.15 Apr, 2013
WEST POINT, N.Y. - New York Army National Guard Brig. Gen. Harry E. Miller receives the unit colors of the 42nd Infantry Division from the New York State Adjutant General, Maj. Gen. Patrick Murphy, during a change of command ceremony here April 13. Outgoing commander Maj. Gen. Steven N. Wickstrom passed the guidon donned with traditional divisional colors at the United States Military Academy’s Trophy Point Ampitheatre, representing the transition of command to Miller.11 Apr, 2013
LATHAM, N.Y. - Members of the New York National Guard Joint Force Headquarters observed the National Days of Remembrance here April 10 to remember the Holocaust. Soldiers and Airmen attended the Holocaust “Days of Remembrance” and viewed videos provided by the Holocaust Museum. The videos, including topics such as “Why we remember the Holocaust” and “Heeding the Warning Signs,” examine the events of 1938 and the impact they had on individuals targeted by Nazi persecution. The program provided an opportunity for reflection and discussion on the Holocaust 75 years later. The intent was to challenge members to consider their own response to warning signs of genocide today, said Master Sgt. Donna Torres, the JFHQ Equal Opportunity Specialist and a coordinator for the program. Choices in response to hatred truly matter, Torres explained and together we can help fulfill the promise of “Never Again.”11 Apr, 2013
LATHAM, N.Y. -- New York Army National Guard Spec. Nick Cavallaro explains the communications network capabilities of the Joint Incident Site Communications Capability system to Lt. Col. Yehuda Elmakias, Head of Tactical Interconnectivity Branch, Israel Defense Force and Col Boaz Kavina, Head of C4I Systems Department, Israel Defense Force (center) during an Israeli Defense Force Home Front Command visit, here, April 10. The Defense Force visitors spent the day learning how the New York Army National Guard develops command and communications capabilities and uses them to bridge first responders and other local, state, and federal agencies during emergencies.8 Apr, 2013
HANCOCK FIELD AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, Syracuse-- Lt. Col. Joseph Biehler, accepts the colors of the 27th Infantry Brigade Combat Team from Major General Steven Wickstrom, the commander of the 42nd Infantry Division, during Change of Command ceremonies here on Saturday, April 7. Biehler, the former commander of the 2nd Battalion 108th Infantry, replaces Col. Geoffery Slack as commander of the brigade4 Apr, 2013
WESTHAMPTON BEACH, NY - New York Air National Guard firefighters assigned to the 106th Rescue Wing train with civilian firefighters to remove simulated victims from a burning aircraft at FS Gabreski Air National Guard Base in Westhampton, New York on April 2nd, 2013. The Airmen are assigned to the 106th Civil Engineering Squadron. Kellogg University provided the mock aircraft, which burned propane at an estimated 1,200 degrees.4 Apr, 2013
GULFPORT, Mississippi- New York Army National Guard Command Sgt. Major Frank Wicks bids farewell to Soldiers of the 222nd Military Police Company as they board a plane on Thursday, April 4 en route to Qatar. The Company, based on Hornell and Rochester mobilized for deployment in February and conducted post-mobilization training at Camp Shelby, Mississippi. They are expected back home in nine months.4 Apr, 2013
LATHAM- Division of Military and Naval Affairs employee Laurie Romer, who works in the state personnel office, stands with Major General Patrick Murphy, the Adjutant General, and her director Marilyn Hartley during an award ceremony held on Tuesday, April 2. Romer was one of a number of DMNA state employees who were recognized by Murphy for the hard work they put in ensuring that supplies were purchased on time to support 4500 New York Military Force members who responded to Hurricane Sandy and that those troops were paid on time.1 Apr, 2013
NEW YORK-- Major General Patrick Murphy, the Adjutant General of New York, speaks with representatives of employers taking part in the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Hire our Heroes job fair at the Lexington Avenue Armory on March 27. The event is aimed at linking veterans, Guard members and reservists up with employers. A similar event will be held at the Thompson Road Armory in Syracuse on April 10 from 1 to 4 p.m.29 Mar, 2013
WESTHAMPTON BEACH, N.Y.-New York Air National Guard Pararescue Jumpers with the 102nd Rescue Squadron simulate recovering a downed F-16 pilot during training at FS Gabreski Air National Guard Base in Westhampton Beach, New York on March 25th, 2013. The Airman are part of the 106th Rescue Wing of the New York Air National Guard.28 Mar, 2013
ISLAN QALA, Afghanistan-- New York Army National Guard Soldiers assigned to a Security Forces Advisory Team working with Afghan forces at this border crossing between Afghanistan and Iran pose for a photograph earlier this year atop an old Russian armored personnel carrier. The Soldiers are expected to return in the fall.27 Mar, 2013
STRATTON AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE--Brigadier General Ray Shields, the Director of Joint Staff for the New York National Guard reviews briefing slides during a Situational Update Brief conducted here on Wednesday, March 27, during a Joint Force Headquarters Continuity of Operations exercise. The drill tested the ability of the staff to relocate from from Division of Military and Naval Affairs Headquarters to alternative work locations in case the headquarters building is unusable. More than 55 key staffers relocated to facilities here and at Watervliet Arsenal and the South Lake St. Armory in Troy.26 Mar, 2013
LATHAM-- The New York Army National Guard’s top Soldiers and NCOs of the Year for 2013 were selected on Sunday, March 24 at the conclusion of two days of competition which tested military skills, and military knowledge as well as physical fitness. The winners are, from left: Staff Sgt. Jimsey Robets, the 719th Transportation Company Readiness NCO and the Active Guard and Reserve NCO of the Year; Sgt. 1st Class David Colliton, assigned to Joint Force Headquarters, the Traditional NCO of the Year, and Spec. Rachel Blanchette, assigned to E Company 3-142nd Assault Helicopter Battalion, the Traditional Soldier of the Year. NCO and Soldier winners will compete in a northeast region Best Warrior Competition at Camp Smith later this year to determine who goes onto compete for the Army National Guard title.26 Mar, 2013
INDIAN POINT-- New York Army National Guard Sgt. Ivan Martinez, joins New York Navasl Milita members Petty Officer Steve Gauci and Petty Officer Jeff Alexander (on top of the cabin) on board Naval Militia Patrol Boat 400 off Indian Point Energy Center on March 22. The team was conducting a routing security patrol in the Hudson River off the nuclear power plant.25 Mar, 2013
FORT HAMILTON-- Members of the New York Stability Transition Team, who deployed to Afghanistan in 2012 to work with government officials and local police, pose during an awards ceremony held here on March 16. The Soldiers are, from left, Lt. Col. Martin Dinan, Major Roderick Cassidy, and Master Sgt. Luis Barsallo. Civilian members of the Family Readiness Group pictured are Katrina Dinan (left) and Fawn Backer. At rear is Col. David Sheridan, the officer in charge of the team.20 Mar, 2013
NEW YORK-Air Force Chief Master Sergeant Denise M. Jelinski-Hall, the Senior Enlisted Advisor for the National Guard Bureau signs her name at the top floor of the Freedom Tower during a visit to the building, nearing construction at the World Trade Center site, on March 15. Jelinski-Hall accompanied General Frank Grass, Chief of the National Guard Bureau, during a visit to New York City on March 15-16. As a guest of New York State Command Sgt. Major Frank Wicks and Air Guard Command Master Chief Richard King She toured the Lexington Avenue Armory and marched in the St. Patrick’s Day Parade with the 69th Infantry. Her responsibilities include advising the Chief of the National Guard Bureau on all enlisted matters affecting training and utilization, health of the force, and enlisted professional development of National Guard Soldiers and Airmen.18 Mar, 2013
STEWART AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, NEWBURGH, N.Y. -- Airmen of the 105th Airlift Wing check-in at the deployment processing station during an initial winter storm response here March 18, 2013.The 20 Airmen will stand by with five humvees to assist local governments in the Hudson Valley if needed when a snowstorm exected on March 18/19, Develops. Other New York National Guard Immediate Response Forces were stood up on Long Island at Gabreski Air National Guard Base and the Farmingdale Armed Forces Reserve Center as well as at Camp Smith Training Site at the direction of the governor.16 Mar, 2013
NEW YORK-- Governor Andrew Cuomo joins Major General Patrick Murphy, the Adjutant General of New York( on the governor’s right) and Lt. Col. James Gonyo, the Commander of the 1st Battalion 69th Infantry and other members of the 1st Battalion 69th Infantry in a special St. Patrick’s Day Mass at St. Patrick’s Cathedral on Saturday, March 16. General Frank Grass, the Chief of the National Guard Bureau is behind the governor. Following the service the Soldiers of the "Fighting 69th led the St. Patrick’s Day Parade-- the world’s largest such event-- as they have every year since 1851.15 Mar, 2013
GUILDERLAND--Staff Sgt. Carlos Perez and Sgt. Daniel Tucker, forward observers in the HHC 42nd Combat Aviation Brigade, NY Army National Guard, call in an indirect fire report during an exercise while.Sgt First Class Charles Crouchman and Staff Sgt. Curtis Brand, drill instructors in Co. F, 2/417th Regiment, 4th Bde., 98th Division, Army Reserve, observe and give advice, on March 10, 2013, at Guilderland Range, Guilderland, NY. The 42nd CAB is preparing for a deloyment later this year, and coordinated with the Army Reserve to bring drill instructors to run the unit in exercises ranging from identifying and responding to IEDs, reacting to indirect fire, and room clearing.8 Mar, 2013
WHITE PLAINS, N.Y. - New York Army National Guard Capt. Ashlee Coye provides educational material to 1st Lt. Steven Oh from the 27th Infantry Brigade Combat Team during the unit’s 30-day Yellow Ribbon reintegration event here March 2. More than 150 Soldiers from the brigade, who deployed to Kuwait, Bahrain and Afghanistan over the past year attended the reintegration event. The daylong event provides Soldiers and their families with information and redeployment and the transition back to civilian life. Support from a variety of state or federal agency partners and volunteer organizations provide information regarding resources for employment, education, veterans benefits, counseling or other transition challenges. U.S. Army photo by Col. Richard Goldenberg, Joint Force Headquarters New York National Guard.4 Mar, 2013
HANCOCK FIELD AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE--New York Air National Guard Commander Maj. Gen. Verle L. Johnston (right) presents NY Air National Guard Lt. Col. Edward W. Cook, 174th Attack Wing Logistics Readiness Squadron Commander, with the Col. Governour Morris Citizen Soldier Award at Hancock Field in Syracuse NY on 3 March 2013. Johnston wanted to present the award to Cook in person and thank him for his example of leadership and work in the community.1 Mar, 2013
NORTH LITTLE ROCK, Ark. --National Guard Bureau Chief Gen. Frank J. Grass speaks to the 54 state and territorial Adjutant Generals during a meeting here earlier this year about the impact of federal budget cuts on Army and Air National Guard readiness and operations. Gen. Grass shared his vision for the future of the National Guard in a open letter which can be found here:27 Feb, 2013
DOUALA, CAMEROON-- New York Army National Guard Sgt. Adanna Bullen and SPC Estenia Jimenez both members of the 369th Sustainment Brigade process in American Soldiers who have deployed in support of Task Force Central Accord 13, a joint force mutli-national exercise in western Africa on February 23. The 369th Soldiers are running the Reception Staging and Onward Integration station for the exercise.25 Feb, 2013
STRATTON AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE--Pilot Maj Joshua Hicks arrives at Stratton ANGB after flying a New York Air National Guard LC-130 aircraft assigned to the 109th Airlift Wing from Antarctica in support of the National Science Foundation operations. The ski-equipped LC-130s operated by the 109th Airlift Wing are the only aircraft in the United States military capable of landing on snow and ice. This is the 24th year that the 109th will support operations in Antarctica.22 Feb, 2013
HORNELL, N.Y. -- Maj. Gen. Patrick Murphy, The Adjutant General for the New York National Guard and Congressman Tom Reed, 23rd District congratulate Soldiers of the 222nd Military Police Company at the conclusion of the unit’s deployment ceremony here Feb. 22. Nearly 140 Soldiers of the military police unit, based in Rochester with a detachment here in Hornell, will train for overseas service at Camp Shelby, Mississippi before heading to Qatar. The unit will conduct security operations while deployed and is expected to return to New York in one year. U.S. Army photo by Eric Durr, New York National Guard.13 Feb, 2013
UTICA, N.Y. --“New York Army National Guard Maj. Gen. Steven Wickstrom, Commander of the 42nd Infantry Division, presents the unit colors of the 2nd Battalion, 108th Infantry Regiment to Lt. Col. Christopher Cronin during his change of command ceremony here Feb. 9. Cronin had previously served as the operations officer of the 42nd Division Homeland Response Force.11 Feb, 2013
JERICHO,VT--Lt. Col. Brian O'Keefe, New York Army National Guard, representing the New York National Guard for the first time in competition, during the Sprint portion of the 2013 National Guard Eastern Regional Biathlon held at the Ethan Allen Training Site, Jericho Vt., Feb. 9, 2013. The New York National Guard has a long history of creating Olympic Biathletes including Maj. (Ret.) Curtis Schreiner, a three time Olympian. According to the National Guards Biathlon headquarters, located at the Ethan Allen Training Site in Jericho, Vt., members of the National Guard All-Guard Biathlon Team were represented on the 1988, 1992, 1994, 1998, 2002, 2006, and 2010 U.S. Winter Olympic Biathlon Team and is the only Department of Defense (DOD) organization that consistently sends Soldiers to the Olympics.7 Feb, 2013
FS GABRESKI AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, Westhampton Beach, N.Y. - New York Air National Guard Senior Master Sgt. Joseph Spadavecchia checks over one of several snowmobiles operated by the 103rd Rescue Squadron here February 7th as forces across the New York National Guard prepare for a major snowstorm expected during the weekend of Feb. 8-9. U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Christopher S Muncy.7 Feb, 2013
Members of the 174th Attack Wing Security Forces Squadron, New York Air National Guard, pose for a group photo while deployed to Bagram Air Base, Afghanistan in late 2012. A total of 30 personnel deployed from Hancock Field Air National Guard Base, Syracuse, New York and provided an array of security functions both inside and outside the wire. This was the fourth overseas deployment for the SFS since 2005.1 Feb, 2013
NEW YORK -- New York National Guard Brig. Gen. Ray Shields, Director of the Joint Staff, and IDF Maj. Zerit Gershkovitch, Director of Public Guidance for the Israeli Home Front Command, listen to NYS Commissioner for DHSES Jerome Hauer during a Hurricane Sandy roundtable discussion. Eight Israeli members of the Home Front Command met with New York National Guard and emergency managers here Jan. 31 to discuss best practices. U.S. Army photo by Col. Richard Goldenberg, New York National Guard.5 Feb, 2013
WASHINGTON DC-- President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama salute perfomers in the Inaugural Parade as they pass the reviewing stand on Jan. 20 in a photograph taken by New York Air National Guard Tech Sgt. Eric Miller. Miller, the Public Affairs NCO for the 106th Rescue Wing, was on duty in Washington DC during the Inaugural Week to document National Guard support for the event and the event itself. More of his photographs can be seen on the New York National Guard flickr page.30 Jan, 2013
ANTARCTICA-- New Zealand Prime Minster John Key and his wife Bronagh, pose for a photo with members of the New York Air National Guard’s 109th Airlift Wing during a trip to Antarctica. The 109th Airlift Wing crew picked the Prime Minister up in New Zealand and flew him to McMurdo Station for his multi-day visit earlier in January. With the Prime Minster and his wife are LtCol Vinnie Wilson (Navigator),Major Dave Panzera (Pilot), Captain Patrick Newton (Co-Pilot), Tech Sgt Brandon Gutthinger (Flight Engineer), Staff Sgt Bret Gatta and Senior Airman Treavor Britt, both Loadmasters.28 Jan, 2013
STEWART AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, NEWBURGH, N.Y. -- New York Air National Guard Col. Timothy J. LaBarge, commander of the 105th Airlift Wing, along with Cols. Matthew Godfrey, 105th vice commander and Lori Scheuermann, mission support group commander, welcome home 31 members of the 105th Base Defense Squadron here Jan. 25, 2013. The Airmen returned from an eight-month deployment with the 455th Air Expeditionary Wing, conducting base defense missions at Bagram Air Base in Afghanistan.25 Jan, 2013
NIAGARA FALLS AIR RESERVE STATION-- Members of the New York Army National Guard’s 27th Infantry Brigade Combat Team return from demobilization at Camp Shelby, Mississippi on Friday, Jan. 25.The Soldiers conducted security and logistics support missions in Kuwait, other Persian Gulf nations and Afghanistan. They were the last large lift of 27th Infantry Brigade Combat Team Soldiers to return home from a Mobilization which began last January.25 Jan, 2013
NIAGARA FALLS AIR RESERVE STATION--The 107th Airlift Wing recognized members of the Logistics Readiness Squadron who recently completed the 107 Airlift Wing Mishap Prevention Program. Pictured are, from left,Operations and Compliance Superintendent Senior Master Sgt. Matthew R Rose, Unit Safety Representative Tech. Sgt. Joanna M Blackburn, assistant Unit Safety Representative, and Building Manager Master Sgt Melissa N Shenefiel, assistant Building Manager Senior Airman Andrew Thompson, Asset Management Supervisor Senior Master Sgt. Ralph Burrows.23 Jan, 2013
PEEKSKILL--New York Army National Guard Sgt. Kieran Murphy, receives the Purple Heart in recognition of wounds received when insurgents attacked his vehicle with an improvised explosive device in July 13, 2012, during a ceremony here on Jan. 13. The attack occured during Operation Shrimps Net one of the major operations conducted by the 2nd Battaloon 108th Infantry. Two other Soldiers, PFC Steven W. Onofrey and PFC Ruben D. Abreu, were wounded in the attack and were presented the Purple Heart in Afghanistan.22 Jan, 2013
WASHINGTON-- New York Army National Guard Command Sgt. Major Frank Wicks and his wife Beth enjoy the Commander-in-Chief's Inaugural Ball on Monday, Jan. 21. Wicks and three other members of the New York Army National Guard-- Capt. Shawn Tabankin, Staff Sgt. Sihoon Chung, and Staff Sgt. David Martinsen-- attended the ball with their guests as representatives of the New York National Guard.17 Jan, 2013
CAMP DODGE, Iowa-- New York Army National Guard Private First Class Joseph Myers, Brooklyn, New York, 145th Surface Maintenance Company, adjusts a mine detector headset for Major General Patrick A. Murphy, the Adjutant General of New York, during his visit to their training site on Tuesday, Jan. 15. The 145th SMC is training on a variety of equipment during their annual training period at the National Maintenance Training Center, Camp Dodge, Iowa. Murphy, an Iowa native, visited the New York Soldiers on his way back from a meeting in Michigan.15 Jan, 2013
CITI FIELD, Queens, NY--New York Guard Pfc. Jonathan Pichardo inspects inventory at a logistical staging point here, Jan. 14. The equipment seen are dispatched to areas still effected by Super Storm Sandy. Pichardo is part of a team staged at the baseball park, which serves as a temporary staging point for emergency supplies.for the New York State Office of Emergency Management.15 Jan, 2013
NISKAYUNA--New York Army National Guard 1st Lt. Mark Colloton accepts the guidon of Company E 427th Brigade Support Battalion, the forward support company for the 2nd Battalion 108th Infantry, during change of command ceremonies held Sunday, Jan. 13 at Niskayuna High School. The Company's Soldiers were also honored for their service in Afghanistan at the event.14 Jan, 2013
UTICA-- A New York Army National Soldier who was attached to Headquarters Company of the 2nd Battalion 108th Infantry during the unit's deployment in Afghanistan in 2012 receives awards from the commander during Freedom Salute Ceremonies held here on Saturday, Jan. 12. Freedom Salute Ceremonies were held by battalion units in Ithaca, Gloversville, Peekskill, and Niskayuna over the weekend.12 Jan, 2013
NIAGARA FALLS AIR RESERVE STATION - New York Air National Guard Col. John Higgins speaks with news media from Western NY prior to his assumption of command ceremony here Jan. 12. Higgins, who has been Vice Commander of the wing since August 2011, previously served as the Air National Guard advisor to the Air Force Special Operations Command and as Air National Guard Advisor for Air Force Strategic Planning. Photo by Eric Durr, New York National Guard.8 Jan, 2013
ALBANY, N.Y. - New York Army National Guard Sgt. 1st Class Antoine Juste greets his wife Mary and twin daughters Danika and McKinley during his unit homecoming Jan. 8 at Albany International Airport. Juste, assigned to Company B of the 427th Brigade Support Battalion, was part of nearly 200 Soldiers arriving in two flights across the state from the battalion’s headquarters company and Company B following demobilization at Camp Shelby, Miss. The Soldiers served in Kuwait or Afghanistan as part of the 27th Infantry Brigade Combat Team’s overseas service in 2012. U.S. Army photo by Col. Richard Goldenberg (RELEASED).7 Jan, 2013
BUFFALO--Col. Kevin Rogers, Maintenance Commander of the New York Air National Guard's 107th Airlift Wing, presents a wreath honoring President Millard Fillmore-- who served from 1850 to 1853-- at his gravesite in Forest Lawn Cemetery on January 7, 2013. The military services present wreaths from the current occupant of the White House at the gravesite of each deceased president on the occasion of his birthday.4 Jan, 2013
NIAGARA FALLS-- New York Air National Guard Major DalPorto, the 107th Airlift Wing’s Force Support Squadron (FSS) Commander, stands with members of his unit following his appointment as Niagara Falls Police Superintendent on Friday, Jan. 4. DalPorto has been a member of the National Guard since 1997 and has served on the Nigara Falls Police Department for 17 years.