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
Glens Falls Post Star -- Wed, 21 May 2025 Cohoes resident promoted to colonel in New York Army National Guard takes command of Aviation Brigade LATHAMPaul Bailie, a Cohoes resident, was promoted to colonel in the New York Army National Guard and took command of the 42nd Combat Aviation Brigade during a May 17, 2025, ceremony at the... (more)
WRGB -- Wed, 21 May 2025 New York National Guard boosts EMS workforce with 150 newly certified EMTs Albany, NY (WRGB) In a significant boost to New York's emergency medical services workforce, approximately 150 New York National Guard service members have successfully obtained Emergency... (more)
Rome Sentinel -- Wed, 21 May 2025 Two promoted at New York Air National Guard LATHAM A pair of local airmen have received promotions with the New York Air National Guard, according to an announcement by Air Force Major Gen. Michael Bank, commander of the New York Air... (more)