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
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News USA Today -- Sun, 25 Jan 2026 NY Winter Storm: Travel Bans, National Guard Deployed Jan 2024 A powerful winter storm is poised to blanket much of New York State with a foot or more of snow, prompting Governor Kathy Hochul to initiate travel restrictions and mobilize the National Guard.The... (more)
Lawrence/Depew Bee -- Thu, 22 Jan 2026 New York National Guard funeral honors decline as veteran population ages Soldiers and Airmen from the New York National Guard provided military funeral honors at 6,166 graveside services across the state in 2025, continuing a long-term decline tied to the shrinking... (more)
The Plattsburgh Press Republican -- Tue, 20 Jan 2026 Preserving the Battle of Saratoga SARATOGA SPRINGS A massive painting memorializing Benedict Arnolds heroism at the 1777 Battle of Saratoga was unrolled for the first time since 2013 at the New York State Military Museum... (more)