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
The Daily Gazette -- Wed, 13 Aug 2025 New York National Guard Promotions LATHAM Major General Ray Shields, the Adjutant General for the State of New York, announces the promotion of members of the New York Army National Guard in recognition of their capability... (more)
Daily Gazette -- Tue, 12 Aug 2025 Air Guard Lt. Col. Longlois retires after 42 years of service New York Air National Guard Lt. Col. Charles Longlois, a Mayfield resident, retired after a 42-year military career during a ceremony held at New York National Guard headquarters in Latham... (more)
North Country 360.com -- Sat, 09 Aug 2025 North country people:Armed Forces Brandon Fulmer, Chaumont, 174th Attack Wing, New York Air National Guard, was promoted on June 1 to senior master sergeant. The following north country members of the New York Army National... (more)