NEWBURGH--Staff Sgt. Louis Bonacasa (left) and Tech Sgt. Joseph Lemm, both members of the New York Air National Guard's 105th Airlift Wing's 105th Base Defense Squadron, who were killed in action in Afghanistan on Dec. 21 2015, have been awarded the Bronze Star with V for Valor for their actions that day. The two Air Guardsmen were honored for giving their lives to save other Airmen from a suicide bomber. Four other Airmen died alongside them.
DMNA Press Releases
Loading Press Releases...NY National Guard In the News
Department of War -- Wed, 18 Mar 2026 National Guard Airlift Wing Completes 38th Year of Antarctic Support The New York Air National Guard's 109th Airlift Wing concluded its 38th year supporting American scientific research in Antarctica during the 20252026 Operation Deep Freeze season, March... (more)
Fox News -- Tue, 17 Mar 2026 Steve Doocy reports live from NYC ahead of St. Patrick's Day Parade (Video) Steve Doocy reports live from New York City, speaking with Lt. Col. Andrew Prior about the National Guard's 'Fighting 69th' Infantry Battalion leading the St. Patrick's... (more)
Stars and Stripes -- Mon, 16 Mar 2026 The Fighting 69th to lead worlds largest St. Patricks Day parade in New York City About 800 soldiers from the New York Army National Guard will lead New York Citys annual St. Patricks Day Parade on Tuesday. Also known as The Fighting 69th, the 1st Battalion, 69th Infantry... (more)