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Download full resolution image New York Air Guard Unit Celebrates 100 Years

New York Air Guard Unit Celebrates 100 Years

In this painting from the National Guard historical series, members of the 1st Aero Company, New York National Guard, return from the first mass flight--12 JN-4"Jenny" aircraft-- in U.S. history from Mineola, Long Island to Princeton, N.J. and back, that was conducted Nov. 18-19, 1916.
The descendants of the 1st Aero Company, the New York Air National Guard's 106th Rescue Wing, is based on Long Island today, flying air rescue missions out of Francis Gabreski Airport; the oldest Air National Guard unit in the United States.
The 1st Aero Company was organized as an Signal Corps observation balloon company by the New York National Guard on 30 April, 1908.
One hundred soldiers gathered in the 71st Regiment Armory in New York City eventually formed the company, which in 1915 switched from balloons to airplanes.

DMNA Press Releases

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NY National Guard In the News

The Batavian -- Mon, 27 Apr 2026 Batavia National Guard Soldier receives new rank, new responsibilities Major General Ray Shields, the adjutant general for the state of New York, announces the recent promotion of members of the New York Army National Guard in recognition of their capability... (more)

Army Times -- Wed, 22 Apr 2026 This WWI soldier saved two men from a burning tank with his bare hands When the American Expeditionary Forces joined the Allied armies on the Western Front in World War I, there was one condition upon which their commander, Gen. John Pershing, insisted. He wanted... (more)

Rome Sentinel -- Tue, 21 Apr 2026 ACHIEVEMENT: Local pair earn Air National Guard promotions LATHAM Two local airmen have received promotions in recognition of their capacity for additional responsibility and leadership in the New York Air National Guard, according to an announcement... (more)

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Dated: Fri, Apr 23, 2010 @ 15:25