The New York Guard (State Defense Force) 88th Area Command recently held their monthly drill at the Nassau County Office of Emergency Management. The training focused on developing the units hands on experience with the Military Emergency Radio Network (MERN). MERN is a mission assigned to the New York Guard by the Adjutant General of New York (Senior National Guard Commander) to ensure that during an emergency when traditional communications become inoperable the National Guard has a means to communicate with its units throughout the state as well as other States National Guards.
The New York Guard also spend the weekend ensuring all troops have the proper equipment and supplies for a quick and emergency deployment when activated.
Bethpage, NY – The 88th Area Command of the New York Guard conducted a consolidated drill at the Nassau County Office of Emergency Management facility on Saturday, 11 June. The training event received a visit from New York Guard Command Sergeant Major Chad Smith, who addressed the unit’s NCOs.The focus of this drill was on the Guard Readiness Test (GRT) and Military Emergency Radio Network (MERN) proficiency.In addition to training, the 88th took care of some house cleaning. SFC Rebecca Rodriguez received the NYS Long and Faithful Service Medal (10 years), and OC Michael Rogers received the New York Guard Service Ribbon.SPC Melissa Farrel took the Oath of Reenlistment, and MSG Alexander Martinez (NYNG Retired) raised his hand once again and was sworn into the New York Guard.
Source: New York Guard
