LATHAM, N.Y. -- New York National Guard recruits Zander Griffin (left) and Andrew Valenza (right) join retired New York Army National Guard Chief Warrant Officer Five Brian Smith to cut a cake during ceremonies celebrating the National Guard's 379th birthday at the New York State Division of Military Affairs here on Dec. 11, 2015. Griffin and Valenza, both 17, are some the of youngest New York National members while Smith served for 39 years as helicopter pilot. Smith performed tours of duty in Iraq and Bosnia, took part in humanitarian missions in Central America, and responded to domestic emergencies such as Hurricane Katrina and Superstorm Sandy. To recognize his many years of service, Smith was awarded the Legion of Merit at the cake-cutting ceremony. Griffin is part of the 109 Airlift Wing and Valenza is part of Joint Force Headquarters. The National Guard traces its birth to December 13, 1636 in the Massachusetts Bay Colony. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Master Sgt. Raymond Drumsta, 42nd Infantry Division/released)
DMNA Press Releases
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Times Union -- Mon, 30 Mar 2026 Duty Calls: 42nd Division Artillery in Troy has a new commander Col. Jeffrey Roth has assumed command of the New York Army National Guards 42nd DIVARTY, the artillery headquarters of the 42nd Infantry Division, during a ceremony last week at the Jamaica... (more)
The Daily News -- Fri, 27 Mar 2026 NYC salutes NYPD cop who died serving with Army in war against Iranian regime An NYPD cop who died doing double duty as a soldier during the U.S. attack on Iran was remembered as a humble servant who would sacrifice anything for his family, community and country. ... (more)
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