CONTACT: Staff Sgt. Frank Davis: 518-225-1898 e-mail Frank.E.Davis@us.army.mil

FOR RELEASE: Thursday, Aug 20, 2009

ON SITE: Staff Sgt. Frank Davis: 518-225-1898 e-mail Frank.E.Davis@us.army.mil

WHO:

New York Army National Guard Recruiters and Soldiers from the 501st Explosive Ordnance Disposal battalion and 427th Brigade Support Battalion.

WHAT:

Robots like those used to detect and disarm explosive devices in Iraq and Afghanistan will be part of the equipment on display at the New York Army National Guard recruiting booth at the four-day Trail Rex trail riders expo at the Indian Lookout Country Club. Members of the media covering the event and looking for a different angle are invited to stop by the recruiting station. Display of Army National Guard equipment to include bomb-disposal unit robots, Light Medium Tactical Vehicle (LMTV) truck, a humvee, and the National Guard NASCAR tire-changing station. This trailer will allow participants to experience the thrills of working in a NASCAR pit crew as they race the clock to change a regulation tire. Prizes will be awarded for participation and the best time.

WHEN:

August 20-23, 2009 during Trail Rex hours

WHERE:

Near the Front Gate of the Trail Rex event, at Indian Lookout Country Club, 1142 Batter St. Mariaville.

Coverage Opportunities: Visuals: Anti-IED robots being demonstrated, members of the Trail Rex crowd participating in the NASCAR tire change challenge, members of the public inspecting military equipment. Coverage: Opportunities to speak with recruiters about Army National Guard recruiting and their success at the event and a chance to talk to National Guard Soldiers and new recruits about their experiences in the National Guard and reason for joining.

BACKGROUND:

The New York Army National Guard is once again operating recruiting displays during county fairs across the state to make it easier for the community and 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