PRESS RELEASE


LATHAM, N.Y. — Major General Ray Shields, the Adjutant General of New York, announces the recent service accomplishment of members of the New York Army National Guard in recognition of their initial commitment to serve community, state and nation.

The newest Citizen Soldiers to complete Army basic combat training and advanced individual training were welcomed to their units during a New York Army National Guard battle handoff ceremony. The ceremony marks their completion of the National Guard Recruit Sustainment Program, a preparatory training program that provides new recruits with training, lessons and skills to excel at their initial military training.

The New York Army National Guard welcomed 80 new Soldiers to their units during September and October ceremonies around the state.

Pfc. Davies Frederick from West Valley, N.Y., was formally welcomed into the C Troop, 2nd Squadron, 101st Cavalry (Reconnaissance, Surveillance and Target Acquisition) during a transition ceremony held October 14, 2018 at the Masten Avenue Armory in Buffalo.

Spc. Yo Guo from Rochester, N.Y., was formally welcomed into the Company E, 1st Battalion, 171st Aviation during a transition ceremony held September 8, 2018 at the Patriot Way Armory in Rochester.

Pvt. Jason Maacks from Wilson, N.Y., was formally welcomed into the Headquarters and Headquarters Troop, 2nd Squadron, 101st Cavalry (Reconnaissance, Surveillance and Target Acquisition) during a transition ceremony held September 8, 2018 at the Masten Avenue Armory in Buffalo.

Pvt. Robert Mcclarrie from Rochester, N.Y., was formally welcomed into the Company A, 2nd Battalion, 108th Infantry during a transition ceremony held September 8, 2018 at the Patriot Way Armory in Rochester.

Pvt. Narath Pokharel from Rochester, N.Y., was formally welcomed into the Company A, 427th Brigade Support Battalion during a transition ceremony held September 8, 2018 at the Patriot Way Armory in Rochester.

Pfc. Sarah Rynkowski from Alexander, N.Y., was formally welcomed into the Headquarters and Services Company, 642nd Support Battalion during a transition ceremony held September 8, 2018 at the Patriot Way Armory in Rochester.

Pfc. Wolfgang Switzer from West Seneca, N.Y., was formally welcomed into the 105th Military Police Company during a transition ceremony held October 14, 2018 at the Masten Avenue Armory in Buffalo.

Spc. Jonathan Wharram from Brockport, N.Y., was formally welcomed into the 10th Mountain Command Post Operational Detachment during a transition ceremony held September 8, 2018 at the Masten Avenue Armory in Buffalo.

The ceremony marks their completion of the National Guard Recruit Sustainment Program, a preparatory training program that provides new recruits with training, lessons and skills to excel at their initial military training. The Soldiers will now embark on their traditional National Guard service to state and nation as part-time Citizen Soldiers.

“For these new Soldiers, being welcomed to their unit after basic training and advanced individual training is exhilarating and a proud day for them and their families. They received their unit’s distinctive shoulder patch, which officially makes them part of their new team.” Shields said.

“I congratulate these Soldiers on this tremendous individual achievement and wish them the best as they integrate into their new unit and learn the teamwork and leadership skills necessary for success.”

“Every Soldier or Airman across our great State makes a difference every day they serve, whether helping their community at home or serving our nation overseas. We welcome these newest Citizen Soldiers and Airmen as part of our Guard family.”

For more information about the New York Army National Guard, visit www.dmna.ny.gov or www.1800goguard.com.