Summer_Fall_15_Final
- 1. SENTINEL Summer/Fall 2015Summer/Fall 2015Summer/Fall 2015 New York GuardNew York GuardNew York Guard———Since 1917Since 1917Since 1917 Fully trained, ready to respondFully trained, ready to respondFully trained, ready to respond... THE NEW YORK GUARD The New York Guard Decon Team certify their skills during AT
- 2. Are you on the NY Guard e-mail list? Make sure all your soldiers stay informed! Update LTC Colety at HHD on your roster’s email addresses. Are all your troops receiving The State Guard Sentinel? If not, they are missing out on important command information. Make sure your soldiers are well informed. Update the headquarters’ email list with your troops email addresses today. Have your S-1 forward all updated email address to the G-1 at g1@dmna-nyg.ny.gov. The New York Guard Sentinel is published quarterly and has a circulation of about 500 soldiers through direct email. It is distributed free to all members of the New York Guard and other interested parties. The New York Guard augments and supports the New York military forces in order to enhance the overall capabilities of the Division of Military and Naval Affairs. As a member of the New York Guard, you are a part of history and that history is documented in every is- sue of The State Guard Sentinel. Let everyone know about the real world missions and training in the NY Guard. Print out a couple of copies and tack them up in the break room at work, place them on a table in your of- fice or waiting room, or leave them in your classroom. Your friends, relatives, associates, coworkers, and classmates might just be looking for a way to serve and you could receive the credit. The Recruitment Team at Headquarters is standing by to make sure YOU get the credit you deserve for every recruit you bring in. It only takes three recruits to get the New York State Recruiting Medal! Contact the Recruiting/Retention Unit. GOVERNOR ANDREW M. CUOMO Commander In Chief MAJOR GENERAL PATRICK A. MURPHY New York State Adjutant General BRIGADER GENERAL STEPHEN BUCARIA New York Guard Commanding General RECRUIT BY E-MAIL BE PROUD OF YOUR SERVICE! LET THEM KNOW COLONEL DAVID WARAGER Commander, Recruiting/Retention; Public Affairs Directorate CAPTAIN MARK GETMAN Editor in Chief - Deputy Public Affairs Officer SPECIALIST LLOYD SABIN Copy Editor LIZAVETA GETMAN Graphics, Layout and Design MISSION STATEMENT Front Cover: Soldiers from the 15th Decontamination Company, 9th Battalion, 88th Brigade of the New York State Guard trained and certified with their Class B Chemical Suits during a decontamination ex- ercise/certification held during Annual Training— Photo by Captain Mark Getman, NYG PAO. THE SENTINEL—Summer/Fall 2015 Page 2
- 3. MESSAGE TO THE NY GUARD Mail Call One of the most exciting things about the New York Guard is the variety of in- dividuals, enlisted and commissioned, who comprise the body of this amazing organization. The members of the Public Affairs Team would love to hear from you to include your letters and photos to include in up-coming issues of The New York Guard Sentinel. To have your letters or photos published in the next issue of The New York Guard Sentinel, email them to: Captain Mark Getman New York Guard Sentinel– Editor In Chief Deputy Public Affairs Officer Email @ mark.getman@dmna-nyg.ny.gov Remember to visit us on Facebook at The Official New York Guard Public Facebook page…. www.facebook.com/newyorkguard THE SENTINEL—Summer/Fall 2015 Page 3 Camp Smith Training Site — 1944, Co. B, 9th Regiment, New York Guard – Photo Courtesy Joseph Giovinco MD, SSG (Ret.) Stripes for Buddies Program There is a great opportunity for new soldiers to earn advanced promotion to the pay grades of E-3 or E-4 by referring recruit candidates who subsequently enlist in the New York Guard. The individual can make the referral before or after he or she receives his or her order of enlistment in the New York Guard. This program, known as “Stripes for Buddies” closely follows a similar program in the Army National Guard as set forth in AR-600-8-19, Section 7-19. The program allows a soldier in grade of E-2 to be promoted to E-3 by referring one candi- date who successfully enlists in the NYG. A soldier in the grade of E-3 can be promoted to E-4 by refer- ring two candidates who successfully enlist in the NYG. Therefore, a soldier in the grade of E-2 who refers three soldiers can be promoted from E-2 to E-4. In addition, a soldier who refers two or more individuals that enlist into the New York Guard will receive the NYG Recruiting Directorate, Recruiting Excellence Certificate. A soldier who refers three or more individuals into the NYG will merit the New York State Recruiting Medal. The first NYG solider to take advantage of this program was SPC Stephen Johnson, HQ, NYG, who was promoted from E-3 (PFC) to E-4 (SPC) by during AT-2015. (See Photo on Left) SPC Johnson had referred two candidates who enlisted in the 56th BDE. Every unit has a recruiting section, but EVERY SOLDIER is a recruiter. Talk up with your friends your pride in serving in the NYG and the opportunities for training that are available. Applications are available on the website or you can ask your BDE Recruiter, or contact the NYG Recruiting, Retention and Public Affairs Directorate at recruiting@newyorkguard.us. BRIGADIER GENERAL STEPHEN BUCARIA New York Guard Commanding General
- 4. Chief of StaffGREETINGS! New York Guard As we close out 2015, I want to THANK the soldiers of the NY Guard and their families for the time spent making the NY Guard a great organization. In 2015, we have transitioned into many areas, some new, some old. This includes extensive engineer operations at Camp Smith (CSTS) and other areas throughout the State, Legal Support Operations at Ft. Hamilton and West Point, Yellow Ribbon ceremo- nies at Stewart ANG base with the 89th NYG Band, Public Affairs support and Chaplain Support Missions, movement control at Camp Smith and most recently answering the Governor's call packaging Thanksgiving meals for the needy. On behalf of the Commanding General and all NY Guard Staff members, I want to wish everyone a happy, healthy and joyous holiday season. 2016 appears to be an exciting year in the NY Guard. There are many exciting events on the horizon, beginning with the 2016 Commander's Conference on 23 January 2016 and Annual Training in June. Be safe! — Colonel George J. DeSimone, - Chief Of Staff, New York Guard THE SENTINEL—Summer/Fall 2015 Page 4 Command Sergeant Major COMMAND STAFF To the Soldiers of the New York Guard: This is likely my last time writing to you as your State CSM. I want to thank you for what you do, your dedication and can-do spirit. My first experience with the New York Guard was in November 1989. It was my first drill with the US Army Reserve during a weapons firing training at Camp Smith. What I remember very clearly from that day was that there were a number of very fat high ranking officers just standing around and saluting each other. It was not a very good first impression. Now the NYG has changed into an organization with soldiers that I can be very proud of. We may have skill sets that are different from our National Guard counterparts, but we also bring our experience to the table: experience as soldiers and from our civilian careers. Furthermore, we are unique in the military in that we continue to perform our duty, month in and month out, despite the fact that we do not get paid for drills and we receive no retirement benefits. That shows the true commitment of our NYG soldiers to the ideal of service to the State and our fellow citizens. We are the true citizen soldiers. I wish all of you an outstanding holiday season and please, stay safe. CSM Robert E. Lefberg NYG CSM
- 5. THE SENTINEL—Summer/Fall 2015 Page 5 HEADQUARTERS Recruiting/Retention Directorate New York Army National Guard Recruiters provide Professional Development Training Story by Colonel David J. Warager Commander, Recruiting, Retention and Public Affairs Directorate Photo by Captain Mark Getman - New York Guard August, 2015 - Camp Smith Training Site, Cortlandt Manor, NY. –The New York Guard conducted its second ever specialized training for Recruiting, Retention and Public Affairs team members. This two day training session was conducted as part of the pro- fessional development component in the New York Guard’s Annual Training program. The first day of the program was led by SSG Edward Simpson, NYG Recruiting & Retention NCOIC, and covered a number of topics specific to the NYG, including the recruiting applica- tion process, goals and objectives for the recruiting team for the upcoming training year and recent changes to the NYG Directives regarding enlistments, appointments and promo- tion. SSG Simpson also addressed the role of the recruiting and retention officers in working with both soldiers and unit leadership in the retention process. There was also a session by NYG Deputy Public Affairs Officer, CPT Mark Getman, on how the NYG Public Affairs office supports the recruiting and retention program and the proper use of social media in the area of recruiting and retention. The second day of the training was presented by a team from Alpha Company of the New York Army National Guard Recruiting and Retention Battalion, led by SGM Eric Hunt. SGM Hunt’s team provided sessions on 1) techniques to prospect for recruits, 2) how to develop and market recruiting events, 3) proper techniques for conducting interviews with prospects, 4) how to identify red flags in the information provided by a prospect, and 5) qualifying candidates and how to keep them interested through the application process. Each of the NYG’s major subordinate commands had representatives take part in the training. Brigadier General Stephen A Bucaria, Commander of the NYG, visited the training session to express his thanks to the National Guard team and stressed the importance of the recruiting and retention mission to the overall mission of the New York Guard, specifically how critical it is to continue to attract and retain quality recruits in order to be able to answer the Governor’s call in the event of a state emergency. CHAPLAIN Military Chaplains provide religious support for all faith groups, moral leadership, emergency religious services, unit ministry team readiness and professional expertise to the Commander on free exercise of religion, morals, morale, and the ethical impact of command decisions. Military Chaplains also provide religious services, rites, sacraments, ordinances, religious education, pastoral care and coun- seling, religious education, family life ministry (strong bonds, marriage and family counseling), institutional ministry, professional sup- port to the command, management and administration, humanitarian support (disaster support and relief), suicide prevention training and religious support planning and operations. NYG members are encouraged to seek out their unit Chaplains in times of need. Your chaplains are there to support you. It is our honor and duty to take care of our soldiers and their families. If you’re not sure who your unit’s Chaplain is, please contact your Commander or NYG Headquarters at (914) 930-1116. If you are interested in becoming a Chaplain, Assistant Chaplain, or Chaplain Assistant (Religious support Specialist- Enlisted Position) Contact Chaplain (MAJ) Sean P. Gardner, New York Guard Chief of Chaplains Email: sean.gardner@dmna-nyg.ny.gov | Photo – NY Guard Command Chaplain (Maj) Sean P. Gardner recites a prayer at Annual Training Graduation Ceremony. Above Photo: Brigadier General Stephen A Bucaria, Commander of the New York Guard (Center) along with Colonel David J. Warager Commander, Recruiting, Retention and Public Affairs Directorate- New York Guard (behind BG Bucaria) and his recruiters (back row) presented certificates of appreciation to New York Army National Guard Recruiting and Retention Battalion SGM Eric Hunt and his Recruiting team at the conclusion of the New York Guard Recruiting/Retention and Public Affairs workshop held during the New York Guard Annual training. Photo by Captain Mark Getman, New York Guard -PAO Photo by Captain Mark Getman
- 6. HEADQUARTERS/RTI THE SENTINEL—Summer/Fall 2015 Page 6 Fourteen Years Later, New York Guard Remembers 9/11 Story by Colonel Glenn Marchi – 12th RTI, Photos by Captain Mark Getman– HQ CORTLANDT MANOR, NEW YORK.- Before the start of their monthly training, on September 12th 2015, sol- diers from New York Guard Headquarters, 244th Medical Command, 56th Brigade and 12th RTI paid tribute to honor and remember the nearly 3,000 men and women lost on September 11, 2001. The remembrance was held at Camp Smith Training Site. A September 11th , Never Forget Flag was presented to Briga- dier General Stephen Bucaria, Commander, New York Guard by Colonel Glenn Marchi, Commander of the 12th Regimental Training Institute, (RTI) New York Guard. COL Marchi was a first responder to the World Trade Center attack and was presented the 9/11 Flag from the 42nd Infantry Division (ID) when he deployed to Iraq as a Battalion Commander for the 642nd Aviation Support Battal- ion, 42nd ID in 2004. BG Stephen Bucaria, Commander of the New York Guard, shared the followings remarks, to the formation of New York Guard troop, “It was a day that has dramatically changed America forever. The New York Guard served with honor and distinction in conducting essential emer- gency response tasks for the State of New York.” As part of the remembrance ceremony, the New York Guard Chief of Chaplains, Major (CH) Sean P. Gardner offered a prayer of remem- brance, and a moment of silence to remember those whose lives were lost during 9/11. The New York Guard was mobilized by Governor George Pataki imme- diately after the attack on the World Trade Center on 9/11. Over 400 NYG soldiers were activated and served on Operation Trade Center. The 88th Brigade augmented the NY Army National Guard in NYC at Ground Zero. The 14th Brigade, 56th Brigade, 10th Brigade and 65th Brigade were de- ployed to operate warehouses in Poughkeepsie, Thiells, Camp Smith, and Long Island for the supplies that were pouring into Ground Zero to support the recovery operation. NYG soldiers were also deployed as part of the force protection teams that secured the NY Division of Mili- tary Affairs sites and armories in the region. New York Guard soldiers were on duty from 9/11 through the end of the 2001 and into 2002. The ceremony included the playing of G-d Bless America, by the 89th New York Guard Band, Amazing Grace on Bagpipes by LTC John Grant, and concluded with the playing of TAPS by SSG Joseph Baldanza, from the 89th New York Guard Band.
- 7. THE SENTINEL—Spring 2015 THE STATE GUARD SENTINEL New York Guard History Photos of the New York Guard Training during World War II (1941 & 1943) Courtesy PFC Wincenty Kudelycz
- 8. THE SENTINEL—Summer/Fall 2015 Page 8 Public Affairs THE PUBLIC AFFAIRS TEAM NEEDS YOU! CONTACT CPT Mark Getman, Deputy Public Affairs Officer (516) 644-9743 mark.getman@dmna-nyg.ny.gov The New York Guard Sentinel is expanding, and our presence in the Guard Times grows with each issue, the NY Guard Public Affairs Team needs you! If you are a writer, photographer, journalist, or web designer and you want to serve your country, we want to talk to you! The New York Guard Centennial (100 years of Service) Celebration will be in 2017 -- be part of this celebration and get your New York Guard Commemorative Challenge Coin (See Back Page). Pre-Order your Special Edition New York Guard Centennial Coin for Only $10.00 - Details about pre-ordering will be announced soon. Proceeds from the sale of the coin will help fund the Centennial Celebration. If you have pictures, uniforms, memorabilia etc. that you would like to share in upcoming issues of the Sentinel and display at our 100 Year Celebration in 2017 please contact Captain Mark Getman - Deputy Public Affairs Officer mark.getman@dmna-nyg.ny.gov for further information. On November 14th 2015, in a Change of Command Ceremony conducted in front of friends, family and the Soldiers of the 65th Emergency Response Regiment, 10th Brigade, LTC David Albanese assumed command of the Regiment from outgoing acting Commander Colonel Steven Molik. LTC Albanese recently retired from the US Army with over 30 years of service and was presented with the Legion of Merit award recognizing his service.. As seen in The New York Post Newspaper - Courtesy Specialist (Retired) Martin J Smith , NY Army National Guard
- 9. THE SENTINEL—Summer/Fall 2015 Page 9 New York Guard……...In The News THE NY STATE RECRUITMENT MEDAL — Got yours? The Recruiting Medal may be awarded to any member of the New York State Organized Militia who obtains three new members for any unit of the organized militia. Decon Unit Training/Certification Covered by Media Photos and story by Captain Mark Getman- New York Guard CAMP SMITH TRAINING SITE, CORTLANDT MANOR, N.Y. More than three hundred members of New York's volunteer state defense force, the New York Guard, completed their yearly week-long Annual Training program at Camp Smith Training Site on August 22nd . Soldiers from the 15th Decontamination Company, 9th Battalion, 88th Brigade, based out of New York City and Long Island are specially trained New York Guard members that provide chemical, biological, radiological decontamination assistance to the New York National Guard and State when needed. During this week of annual training soldiers from the 15th Decon Company received additional refresher and recertification training for donning hazardous material protective (DECON) suits, and completed a final exercise at the end of their intense one week of training. The exercise was covered by local TV Station NEWS 12 Westchester reporter Kristen Pope, who also donned a low level protective suit in order to experience what these trained soldiers endure. Unlike the New York Army or Air National Guard, members of the New York Guard are not in the federal military force, do not carry weapons, and do not conduct missions outside New York. Their role is to augment and assist the New York National Guard during state emergencies and National Guard domestic support missions as part of the state's military force. New York Guard members also assist National Guard units with administrative support and training during troop mobilizations To see more photographs from New York Guard Annual Training, click https://flic.kr/s/aHskidZ5LW
- 10. THE SENTINEL—Summer/Fall 2015 Page 10 New York Guard……...In The News Legal Teams Support Deploying Airmen Photos courtesy 2nd LT Joseph Anthony Dempsey STEWART NATIONAL GUARD AIR BASE, NEWBURGH, N.Y.-- On July 24 2015, over 10 New York Guard Soldiers from the New York Guard 56th Brigade and additional units participated in a Legal Services Operation, in support of a Yellow Ribbon Event for deploying Airmen of the New York Air National Guard and their families. Led by Maj. Steven Hartov, JAG officers Captain Brian Kanner and Captain Frederick Marasco, together with 1st Lieutenant Robert Ellis, Jr. and 2nd Lieutenant Joseph Dempsey provided legal counsel, prepared wills and powers of attorney, and briefed soldiers on their legal rights as deploying military members. In addition to legal support, Chaplains from the New York guard provided Chaplain Services and support. "These Yellow Ribbon operations are a great way for the New York Guard to provide much needed assistance to soldiers deploying to some dangerous places. Worrying about legal problems facing you or your family back home needlessly adds to the stress of overseas deployments and takes focus away from the job at hand. We work to put soldier’s minds at ease so they can focus on the mission," 2nd Lieutenant Dempsey said. Top Photo - 1942, The 89th Army Band was part of the NY National Guard. Bottom photo, the 8th Regiment Band, NYG. The 89th New York Guard Band’s lineage is derived from the 89th National Guard band after their deactivation in the late 1950’s.
- 11. Annual Training 2015 THE SENTINEL—Summer/Fall 2015 Page 11 To Join SGAUS Click on https://www.sgaus.org/member_services/membership_application.asp To read the latest issue of the SGAUS SDF TIMES click on https://www.sgaus.org/ docs_forms/2015%20Docs/sgaus_newsletter_spring_2015.pdf The mission of the State Guard (SGAUS) is to advocate for the regulated state military forces under the authority of United States Code. The State Guard Association of the United States advancement and support of established by state govern- Title 32, Section 109, of the are typically called state defense military reserves and are regu- lated by state law and operational guidance provided by the U.S. Army’s National Guard Bureau. For more information about SGAUS visit http://www.sgaus.org/ Drill and Ceremony Competition Award Goes to … - Story by PFC Vincenzo Carciofolo – 2nd Emergency Response Battalion, 10th Brigade, New York Guard At this year’s Annual Training, the New York Guard Initial Entry Training (IET) Basic Training recruits were challenged to a drill and ceremony competition by the OCS (Officer Candidate School) recruits. The challenge was forwarded to the IET class by SSG Joseph Ronda, an IET Drill Sergeant with the New York Guard. After the IET class heard of the challenge, it was with great pride and honor that the IET class accepted, and the competition was held on August 21st 2015. It was arranged that each class would choose their five best soldiers to participate in the 12th Regimental Training Institute (RTI) IET Drill Team. On the day of the competition, when the final scores were tal- lied, the IET class beat the OCS recruits 8.7 to 8.5 out of 10. In recognition of IETs outstanding work, CSM Lefburg issued challenge coins to the IET Drill Team followed by personal congratulations from BG Bucaria. The 12th RTI IET’s motto, given to the platoon by SFC Felix Ortiz, is “Anytime, Anywhere, HOOAH!” which motivated the Drill Team to come and win the competition. From left to right: The 2015 IET Drill and Ceremony Team winners—PVT Danielle Bardin, PVT Bradley Hecker, PFC Nicholas Ingianni, Platoon Sergeant of the IET Drill and Ceremony Team PFC Vincenzo Carciofolo, Guidon Bearer PVT William Hernan- dez Jr. with Brigadier General Stephen Bucaria -Commander, New York Guard–Photo by Captain Mark Getman, NYG HQ
- 12. THE SENTINEL—Summer/Fall 2015 Page 12 Annual Training 2015 2015 Annual Training Basic Officer/Warrant Course candidates share their thoughts... New York Guard Officer and Warrant Officer Candidates (New York Guard Officer Candidate School Class of 2015) took a few moments off during their intensive week of Annual Training - Basic Officer Course held during August 15-22 2015, at Camp Smith Training Site to pose for a class photo with their instructors. Photo by Captain Mark Getman , NYG HQ. Officer Candidates were asked to share their thoughts about the training they received during their Basic Officer Course. Below are some thoughts that were shared with The New York Guard SENTINEL “Military training of any sort is absolutely invaluable to the betterment of soldiers’ skills and their ability to carry out their mission. Annual training is designed to refresh soldiers’ skills, but the main takeaway for me was that it allowed for teamwork among all the soldiers. Soldiers of various backgrounds came together and were able to connect. As a result strong bonds were formed and are thriving today. The OCS team created its own shirt and remains close to one another through email and social media. OCS provided a learning environment in which Officer candidates were able to refine their leadership skills, but it also allowed them to connect with one another and this is why I believe OCS is invaluable in the development of the New York Guard’s future leaders.” - Officer Candidate Alex Gallego – Unit Commander, 104 Logistics Support Detachment, 142 Service Company, 14th Battalion, 88th Brigade NY Guard “Regardless of one’s training everyone learned something about themselves though OCS. And just as important in the process we develop family with those we never thought possible. Also a renewed sense of pride for what we do, who we are, our value as leaders and the NYG mission and resolve.” – Officer Candidate Hector Sepulveda “The BOC class taught me a lot about leadership and leadership roles within the New York Guard. The ability to differenti- ate without discrimination was extremely helpful. The class became a very cohesive unit under direction of Major Parlatore. All in all it was a great experience”. – 2nd Lieutenant Sharon Gincola Congratulations To The OCS/WOC Training Class of 2015!!
- 13. THE SENTINEL—Summer/Fall 2015 Page 13 Annual Training 2015 During the New York Guard Annual Training, which was held from August 15-22 2015 at Camp Smith Training Site, members of the mess (food prep section) worked continuously to provide three meals a day to the 350+ Soldiers who were in attendance. The mess section also provided their skills after the Graduation/Pass and Review Ceremony at a barbeque that was held for the Soldiers and their families , retirees, and all invited guests. Above – Specialist Yves Saint-Vill from the 56th Brigade prepares breakfast and lunch meals during annual training. Right — From the 88th Brigade , 71st Emergency Response Battalion brothers Specialist Ralph Gil and Specialist Armando Gil worked as part of the Mess Hall cook team to help serve meals during annual Training. — Courtesy Photos
- 14. THE SENTINEL—Summer/Fall 2015 Page 14 Annual Training Moments from New York Guard Annual Training which was held from August 15-22 2015 at Camp Smith Training Site.—Photos by Captain Mark Getman Initial Entry Training Class To see more Annual Training Photos click Here: https://flic.kr/s/aHskidZ5LW THE TOC
- 15. THE SENTINEL—Summer/Fall 2015 Page 14 Annual Training The New York Guard Initial Entry Training Course (Top Row Photo) and the Basic and Advanced MERN (Military Emer- gency Radio Network) Commo Course class (below) posed for a group photo after their graduation ceremony held at Camp Smith Training site on Aug. 22, 2015 — Photos by Captain Mark Getman — NYG, Public Affairs Officer
- 16. Answering the Call THE SENTINEL—Summer/Fall 2015 Page 16 New York Guard Soldiers Help to Prepare Thanksgiving Donations Story and photos by Captain Mark Getman, NY Guard New York City, NY – Over thirty five soldiers from the New York Guard as- sisted in the making, packing and sealing of food boxes on Monday, November 23 2015 at the Jacob Javits Center, NYC. The New York Guard SM volun- teers, along with New York Army National Guard Soldiers, helped to prepare over 3000 food boxes as part of New York State’s Annual Thanksgiving Food donation drive which is sponsored by New York State Governor Andrew M. Cuomo’s office. The Governor partici- pated in the food drive event, addressed the Sol- diers and volunteers in attendance and before leaving posed with the Soldiers from the New York Guard and New York Army National Guard and thanked them for their service to the people of New York. New York Guard soldiers pose with New York Governor Andrew M Cuomo displaying one of the food donation boxes they helped to prepare as part of the Governor’s Annual Holiday Food Drive event. Photo courtesy Kevin P. Coughlin/Office of the Governor (L) New York Guard Soldiers work on sealing boxes as part of the Governor’s holiday meal donation event. Over 3000 boxes were assembled and packed for distribution throughout the State New York Guard Soldiers in formation while New York State Governor addresses the volunteers who assisted with the packing of holiday food boxes
- 17. New York Guard Stories THE SENTINEL—Summer/Fall 2015 Page 17 My path to the New York Guard began as a civilian lawyer assisting as Pro Bono counsel to veterans organizations. This work led to interactions with the active duty Army and the suggestion that I seek a Direct Commission. The 7th LAD had an open Billet where I am now the S-1 in addition to being a Judge Advocate and the Deputy S-1 for the 88th Brigade. I am honored to have the opportunity to support the United States in these days of great threat and proud to serve with the men and women of the New York Guard. As a Judge Advocate in the 88th Brigade assigned to the 7th Legal Assistance Detachment (LAD) my duties include Soldier Readiness Processing (SRP) for deploying troops. SRP means the preparation of a Will, Burial Instructions and related documents for soldiers going overseas. The need to have such paperwork reminds us that freedom is not free and that our troops are going into harm's way. The Mission of the 7th often includes supporting other Branches of the military including nearby units of Airmen and Marines. In addition to SRP, on the first weekend of each month the 7th LAD operates the Le- gal Office at Fort Hamilton in Brooklyn, New York, a military facility in operation since 1825. We provide legal services to active and retired military SMs throughout the tri-state area. Services range from basic estate planning to advice on a range of civil legal matters. Recently, I assisted a Marine and his family rescind a predatory used car purchase and obtain a full refund of their money. Our training goes far beyond the scope of legal work and includes New York Guard Military Leadership and Department of Homeland Security courses required to support the mission of protecting the citizens of our region. CPT Andrew B. Lane, Judge Advocate, S-1 7th Legal Assistance Detachment, 88th Brigade At 45 years old, I left for Camp Smith. I am a husband and father of three having serving my community as President of the Oyster Bay Chamber of commerce, soccer coach and business owner, and despite my many years of community service, this was my first experience in the military. "I enlisted in the New York Guard believing it was important to do so...I considered it a matter of personal integrity." Serving in the New York Guard has made me stronger, going through IET and then attending BNCOC has helped me become a better leader in my home, community and in my unit. "Too many people don't have the time to volunteer anymore. The New York Guard is a way to encourage volunteerism, while giving back to the community." Service in the New York Guard is the gift we give to the State of NY. It's what makes us human. It is also what gives our lives meaning. Serving my State is part of serving humanity. My story is not very different from many of the proud men and women that serve or are considering serving in the New York Guard. We all come from different walks of life but share one thing in common: we believe that being in the service of another is the highest honor we can receive. — Officer Candidate Alex Gallego
- 18. Thanking Those Who Served THE SENTINEL—Spring 2015 Page 17 Middle Village, (Queens) NY – On Sunday November 8th 2015 over 50 soldiers from the New York Guard partici- pated in marching in the Queens Veterans Day Parade, helping to honor Veterans from various conflicts for their military service. New York Guard Commander Brigadier General Stephen Bucaria, served as the grand marshal for the parade. The soldiers participating in the parade were from the New York Guard’s 88th Brigade, 14th Regiment based out of New York City and Long Island, 56th Bri- gade and Headquarters units based out of Camp Smith Training Site in Cortlandt Manor.
- 19. THE SENTINEL—Summer/Fall 2015 Page 19 New York City Veteran’s Day Parade 2015 On November 11th 2015 Soldiers from the New York Guard 88th Brigade, 56th and Headquarters march down 5th Avenue during the New York City Veterans Day Parade. The New York Guard also joined over 1000 soldiers from the New York Army National Guard's 369th Sustainment Brigade, an 42nd Infantry Division Band in participating in the annual event that Honors Veterans of past and present. Photos top Left and bottom by Dane G Wimer. Photos Top Right and Bottom by Captain Mark Getman—NYG
- 20. IN MEMORADUM FINAL SALUTE FRIENDS OF THE NEW YORK GUARD THE SENTINEL—Spring 2015 Page 18 In Remembrance MG Robert Disney MG John F Bahrenburg LTC Ingvar-Brich Lantzky 1LT Laura L Finch 1LT Donald P Sanders CW3 Edmund Farrell MSG Gordon B Gattsek SSG James D Rodriguez AMN Elizabeth T Edger