JOINT FORCE HEADQUARTERS, LATHAM -- New York State Command Sgt. Maj. Robert Van Pelt reads off the names of all 31 New York Army National Guardsmen who died in Iraq and Afghanistan dating back to New York's first fallen Soldier, Sgt. Heath McMillin on July 27, 2003.
"Memorial Day for us is a time to remember those who have given their lives in the ultimate sacrifice to their country." said New York's Adjutant General, Brig. Gen. Patrick Murphy. "People might forget what the day is really about. It's not just another holiday with a three-day weekend, it's about remembering those who have given their lives for their country."
The memorial ceremony took place at the New York National Guard Headquarters on May, 25. Members of the National Guard leadership and troops across the state will participate in local ceremonies and events later this week and throughout the Memorial Day weekend.
DMNA Press Releases
Loading Press Releases...NY National Guard In the News
WNYT -- Wed, 28 Oct 2026 Clifton Park Veteran to receive 2026 Veteran of the Year Award SARATOGA SPRINGS, N.Y. (WNYT)- Retired U.S. Army Brigadier General Barry Hartman has been named the 2026 Veteran of the Year by the Friends of the New York State Military Museum (FNYMM) and... (more)
Times Union -- Mon, 26 Oct 2026 Naval Militia promotion Michael Golden, an Afghanistan War veteran from Ballston Spa, was promoted to lieutenant colonel in the New York Naval Militia during a ceremony at the New York State Military Museum in Saratoga... (more)
Olean Times Herald -- Wed, 21 Oct 2026 Emergency preparedness program Monday at Little Valley Fire Department LITTLE VALLEY New York National Guard members will be sharing tips on how to cope with a disaster and then recover quickly during a special program at 11 a.m. Monday at the Little Valley... (more)