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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Orleans Hub -- Thu, 06 Aug 2026 National Guard soldier from Medina gets promotion A National Guard soldier from Medina has been promoted in the New York Army National Guard, Major General Ray Shields, the adjutant general for the state of New York, announced. Ashley Lowery... (more)
Rome Sentinel -- Thu, 06 Aug 2026 Several local airmen receive promotions LATHAM Several local residents have received promotions in the New York Air National Guard, according to an announcement by Air Force Major Gen. Gary Charlton, in recognition of their capability... (more)
American Battle Monuments Commission: -- Mon, 03 Aug 2026 3 things to know about Kemmel Monument The Kemmel Monument, located about 6 miles south of Ieper, Belgium, commemorates the service and sacrifice of American troops who fought in this area in late summer 1918 while attached to... (more)