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
Loading Press Releases...NY National Guard In the News
NationalGuard.mil -- Wed, 14 Jan 2026 New York Army Guard Psychologist is Warhammer Champion LATHAM, N.Y. New York Army Guard Maj. Matthew Southard holds a doctorate in clinical psychology, has two masters degrees, is a supervising psychologist for the New York Police Department,... (more)
Newsday -- Wed, 14 Jan 2026 Military funerals in New York: Ceremonies to bid final farewells decline as generation of World War II, Korea war vets dwindles New York's reserve forces, which provide military funeral services for service members, are seeing a generational shift in which they are giving a final farewell to fewer veterans in... (more)
Daily Sentinel -- Tue, 13 Jan 2026 Three earn New York Army National Guard promotions LATHAM Three local residents have been promoted in recognition of their capability for additional responsibility and leadership, according to an announcement on Tuesday, Jan. 13, by Major... (more)