LATHAM, N.Y. -- New York National Guard recruits Zander Griffin (left) and Andrew Valenza (right) join retired New York Army National Guard Chief Warrant Officer Five Brian Smith to cut a cake during ceremonies celebrating the National Guard's 379th birthday at the New York State Division of Military Affairs here on Dec. 11, 2015. Griffin and Valenza, both 17, are some the of youngest New York National members while Smith served for 39 years as helicopter pilot. Smith performed tours of duty in Iraq and Bosnia, took part in humanitarian missions in Central America, and responded to domestic emergencies such as Hurricane Katrina and Superstorm Sandy. To recognize his many years of service, Smith was awarded the Legion of Merit at the cake-cutting ceremony. Griffin is part of the 109 Airlift Wing and Valenza is part of Joint Force Headquarters. The National Guard traces its birth to December 13, 1636 in the Massachusetts Bay Colony. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Master Sgt. Raymond Drumsta, 42nd Infantry Division/released)
DMNA Press Releases
NY National Guard In the News
Osceloa News Gazette -- Thu, 11 Sep 2025 Remembering 9-11; Kissimmee N.Y. National Guard member promoted Today marks the 24th anniversary of the terror attacks that took place in New York City, Pennsylvania and Washington, D.C. by extremists. As most people know, on that day several planes were... (more)
Times Tribune -- Sun, 07 Sep 2025 People on the Move: New York Army National Guard Major General Ray Shields, the adjutant general for the state of New York, announces the recent promotion of members of the Army National Guard in recognition of their capability for additional... (more)
The Daily News -- Fri, 05 Sep 2025 Two receive National Guard promotions Sep 5, 2025 LATHAM Two area members of the New York Army National Guard have been promoted in recognition of their capability for additional responsibility and leadership. They include: Ian Hinz... (more)