FORT DRUM-- Lt. Col. James Gonyo, commander of the New York
Army National Guard’s 1st Battalion 69th Infantry displays the crucifix carried by Sgt. Joyce Kilmer, a famous poet and member of the 69th Infantry’s intelligence section who was killed in action in World War I. Kilmer’s crucifix has been handed down from commander to commander since then and carried on a daily basis. Kilmer, who wrote the poem "Trees" penned the poem "Rouge Bouquet" about death on the battlefield shortly before his own death.
DMNA Press Releases
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Olean Times Herald -- Thu, 08 Jan 2026 NY Air Guard honors Millard Filmore in wreath-laying ceremony BUFFALO The New York Air National Guards 107th Attack Wing honored Millard Fillmore, the nations 13th president, on Wednesday as the wings Mission Support Group deputy commander laid a wreath... (more)
Olean Times Herald -- Wed, 07 Jan 2026 New York Guard gave honors at more than 6,000 funerals in 2025 The New York National Guard said its soldiers and airmen provided military funeral honors at 6,166 graveside services in 2025. According to a news release from the guard, the 69 soldiers... (more)
Stars and Stripes -- Wed, 07 Jan 2026 Air National Guard collects climate data, fuels research station in Antarctica The New York Air National Guard is using ski-equipped versions of Lockheed Martins long-serving cargo plane to collect scientific data on flights to and from Antarctica, according to the commander... (more)