Prelude to the Article
Unfortunately, there has been little to no news about the New York Guard over the past year. The New York Guard has completely removed its social media presence, and the New York National Guard’s social media do not report or include the New York Guard in their training and mission updates. Additionally, news about the New York Guard is rarely posted on the official New York State Military website, making it increasingly difficult to stay informed about the contributions and activities of this vital state defense force.
We at StateDefenseForce.com implore the New York Guard & New York Division of Military & Naval Affairs to re-establish an online presence for The New York Guard. News updates showcasing training exercises, mission accomplishments, award recognitions, and graduates from Initial Entry Training play a vital role in boosting morale within the organization and increasing public awareness of its contributions.
The New York Guard (State Defense Force), in collaboration with the New York Naval Militia (US Naval Reserve & US Marine Corps Reserve personnel), New York Army National Guard, Schodack Landing Fire Company, and multiple state agencies, participated in the Empire Challenge 2024 exercise held at Schodack Island State Park on September 6, 2024. This three-day, multi-agency training simulated a wildfire response along the Hudson River and highlighted the importance of inter-agency cooperation in disaster scenarios. The exercise underscored the role of the New York Guard as a vital component of the state’s emergency response infrastructure.
Empire Challenge 2024 brought together personnel and assets from various organizations to practice and refine their skills in responding to a large-scale wildfire. The New York Naval Militia deployed two patrol boats, a landing craft, and a command trailer as part of the exercise, while the New York Army National Guard contributed an UH-60M Blackhawk helicopter crew. The helicopter performed simulated water drops using a Bambi bucket, demonstrating how it can lift and release up to 660 gallons of water to extinguish fires. Communication between the Naval Militia’s boats and the helicopter, facilitated by the New York Guard, showcased the synergy required for successful multi-agency operations.
The New York Guard played a critical role in ensuring seamless communication during the exercise. Their coordination efforts with the Naval Militia’s communication trailer and other agencies underscored the importance of interoperability in emergency responses. “If we can’t talk to each other, we can’t send the help that people need,” explained Mike Carl, a radio engineer with the New York State Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Services.
The training also included the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Rangers, who assisted in directing water drops, and the Schodack Landing Fire Company, which deployed amphibious vehicles to test their capabilities. Rear Adm. Michael Perry of the New York Naval Militia emphasized the value of joint training exercises, stating, “Involving all these agencies at the same time ensures that we can mesh effectively in times of crisis.” The seamless coordination between ground, air, and water-based assets demonstrated the effectiveness of joint training in preparing for real-world emergencies.
The success of Empire Challenge 2024 was a testament to the dedication and adaptability of the participating organizations. Despite the challenges faced during the planning process, the exercise delivered invaluable lessons in inter-agency operations. Capt. Don McKnight of the Naval Militia praised the “remarkable synergy” achieved between teams, further validating the importance of such exercises in honing disaster response capabilities.
The New York Guard’s involvement in Empire Challenge 2024 exemplifies their commitment to enhancing New York’s disaster preparedness. As a critical part of the state’s defense and emergency response network, the New York Guard continues to fulfill its mission of protecting the community while fostering collaboration with other agencies.
Source: Guard Times
