CONTACT: Sgt. First Class William Hutley, 607-427-4117

FOR RELEASE: Wednesday, Jul 22, 2009

WHO:

Allegany County New York Army National Guard Recruiters and Soldiers

WHAT:

ANGELICA, NY (07/22/2009)-- Visitors to the Allegany County Fair will have the opportunity to speak with New York Army National Guard Soldiers, compete in a football toss game, and examine a humvee like those used in Afghanistan and Iraq by stopping by the Army National Guard Recruiting station at the fair. Members of the media looking for a different angle for fair coverage are invited to stop by the recruiting tent, located near the fairground track. A recruiting booth featuring displays on National Guard service, the opportunity to compete for prizes in the National Guard football toss contest, and the chance to speak to members of the New York Army National Guard about their service at home and overseas and the benefits of membership,

WHEN:

Now through July 25

WHERE:

Allegany County Fair, Fairgrounds Road, Angelica

Coverage Opportunities: Still and video imagery of members of the public interacting with National Guard Soldiers, examining equipment and competing in the football toss.

BACKGROUND:

The New York Army National Guard is once again operating recruiting displays during county fairs across the state to make it easier for prospective applicants to learn about service opportunities and help the Guard reach out to qualified potential recruits. The New York National Guard is integral to state and community readiness and emergency response. Community support is deemed essential to improving troop levels to help ensure New York is ready for future challenges. "New York's Citizen Soldiers from across our state have provided tremendous and historic service both before 9-11, 2001 and ever since," said Maj. Gen. Joseph J. Taluto, Adjutant General of New York. "Because of our experience and fortitude, New York has the finest National Guard in the nation. Volunteers are needed to join the ranks of our veteran force so that, together, they can continue to protect our state and communities." For information on the fair recruiting event contact Sgt. First Class William Hutley (see above) For more information on the National Guard contact the New York National Guard Public Affairs Office at the New York State Division of Military and Naval Affairs at (518) 786-4581. For information on joining the New York National Guard call toll free at 1-800-GO GUARD