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
NY National Guard In the News
WGRZ -- Tue, 07 Jan 2025 Past president Fillmore honored in tribute at Forest Lawn Cemetery ( Video) BUFFALO, N.Y. It may not have looked like a typical birthday party, but it was one fit for a president. The fresh falling snow provided a beautiful white backdrop at Forest Lawn Cemetery... (more)
Rome Sentinel -- Tue, 07 Jan 2025 Local Air National Guard officer receives Space Operations award ROME A New York Air National Guard member from Rome was recognized for outstanding service by the Space Force Association during the organizations annual conference in Orlando, Florida in... (more)
WKTV News 2 -- Mon, 06 Jan 2025 New York Air National Guard Member from Rome Honored ROME, N.Y. -- A member of the New York Air National Guard from Rome received recognition for his exceptional service from the Space Force Association. Staff Sgt. Jason Capostagno, serving... (more)