NEW YORK -- New York Army National Guard Brig. Gen. Renwick Payne, left, Director of the Joint Staff, passes the guidon of Joint Task Force Empire Shield to Maj. Peter Riley during a change of command ceremony here at Fort Hamilton April 13. Standing at far left is Lt. Col. Greg Dreisbach, the outgoing task force commander. The ceremony marks new leadership for JTF Empire Shield, the standing New York National Guard security task force that supports New York City law enforcement and first responders at critical locations across the city. Approximately 250 Soldiers, Airmen, New York Guard volunteers and members of the New York Naval Militia serve in the task force. Photo by Sgt. Tamara Gabbard, 42nd Infantry Division.
DMNA Press Releases
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Sullivan County Democrat -- Tue, 10 Feb 2026 Prepare for emergencies at free class NARROWSBURG The Upper Delaware Council (UDC) and New York National Guard invite river valley residents in New York and Pennsylvania to attend a free Citizen Preparedness Training course on... (more)
CPA Journal -- Mon, 09 Feb 2026 Remembering a Forgotten Leader and New Yorks First African American CPA: The Legacy of General Wilmer F. Lucas When Brigadier General Wilmer F. Lucas retired from the United States Army Reserve, he did so as a war hero who had led the Harlem Hellfighters at the World War II battle of Okinawa. For his... (more)
Times Union, -- Mon, 09 Feb 2026 Duty Calls: Niskayuna resident takes command of 5,100 soldiers New York Army National Guard Col. Jason Lefton of Niskayuna, an Iraq War veteran, took command of 5,100 soldiers of the 53rd Troop Command during a ceremony at Camp Smith Training Site, Cortlandt... (more)