CONTACT: Sgt. Michael Greene, 518-935-3961, michael.paul.greene@us.army.mil

FOR RELEASE: Monday, Aug 10, 2009

WHO:

New York Army National Guard recruiters and Soldiers.

WHAT:

ALTAMONT, NY (08/10/2009)-- Visitors to the Capital Region's Altamont Fair will be able to speak to recruiters and Soldiers from the New York Army National Guard. The recruiting display at the fair will include an equipment display along with family friendly activities such as a basketball toss, football toss competition and rock climbing wall. The National Guard NASCAR mockup will also include a pitcrew tire changing competition. Members of the media looking for a different angle for fair coverage are invited to stop by the recruiting tent. A recruiting display staffed by New York Army National Guard Soldiers.

WHEN:

August 11-16, 2009

WHERE:

Altamont Fairgrounds, 129 Grand Street, Altamont, NY 12009

Coverage Opportunities: Still and video imagery of members of the public interacting with National Guard Soldiers and equipment.

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 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