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
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)