On April 11, 1918, during the height of World War I, the Poughkeepsie Eagle-News published an article titled “New York Guard as Training School,” highlighting the important role the New York Guard played in preparing soldiers for federal military service. The article featured a statement from New York Adjutant General Sherrill, who emphasized that the New York Guard was not only performing essential State military duties but also serving as a valuable training organization for the United States Army. During this period, New York Guard soldiers were responsible for protecting critical infrastructure throughout the state, including the New York State Barge Canal, New York City’s aqueduct, railway bridges, public utilities, and munitions plants. These missions were vital to maintaining domestic security while the nation continued mobilizing troops for the war overseas.
Beyond its responsibilities protecting New York, the New York Guard also served as a training ground for soldiers who would eventually enter federal military service. Adjutant General Sherrill emphasized that the military experience gained through service in the New York Guard provided recruits with valuable preparation before entering the United States Army. This was especially important for the development of noncommissioned officers, whose leadership and military experience were essential to the rapidly expanding federal military. Many New York Guard soldiers subsequently enlisted in federal service, bringing with them military training and experience that could help them advance more rapidly through the ranks. The article also encouraged young men eligible for military service, including those subject to the draft, to consider joining the New York Guard to gain valuable military experience.
Recognizing the importance of supporting the nation’s wartime mobilization, Adjutant General Sherrill directed New York Guard commanders to cooperate closely with federal military recruiting officers. Soldiers seeking to enlist in the United States Army could receive passes of up to 24 hours to complete the enlistment process, with their discharge from the New York Guard authorized once federal enlistment was confirmed. The newspaper also reported vacancies in local New York Guard Companies E and F, encouraging interested young men to enlist. This historical article demonstrates how, more than a century ago, the New York Guard was already fulfilling two important missions: protecting its state and preparing trained military personnel to support the defense of the United States.
Read the News item below, and if you want to learn more about your State Guard heritage visit The Center For State Defense Force History Website
