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 Sept. 8.
Pfc. Sarah Rynkowski from Alexander was formally welcomed into the Headquarters and Services Company, 642nd Support Battalion during a transition ceremony at the Patriot Way Armory in Rochester.
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," he said.
For more information about the New York Army National Guard, visit www.dmna.ny.gov or www.1800goguard.com.
The New York National Guard (New York State Division of Military and Naval Affairs) is the state's executive agency responsible to the Governor for managing New York's Military Forces, which consists of nearly 20,000 members of the New York Army National Guard, the New York Air National Guard, the New York Naval Militia and the New York Guard.
