CONTACT: Tech Sgt. Michael O'Halloran at (845) 563-2031.

FOR RELEASE: Monday, Mar 09, 2009

WHO:

105th Airlift Wing Command Brig. Gen. Verle Johnston and other officials of the 105th Airlift Wing, Stewart Air National Guard Base firefighters, and officials from the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey

WHAT:

NEWBURGH, NY (03/07/2009)-- The New York Air National Guard's 105th Airlift Wing hosts media and local officials at the unit's newly built, $10 million fire station on Monday, March 9.

WHEN:

Monday March 09, 2009 at 01:30PM Eastern Time (US & Canada)

WHERE:

105th Airlift Wing Stewart Air National Guard Base 1 Maguire Way Newburgh, New York

Stewart firefighters are able to respond to airfield emergencies faster now that the Air National Guard's newest Fire Station is operational. The Fire Station further demonstrates the excellent relationship between the Air National Guard, the Port Authority and the local community. Following the ceremony, guests and media will be given a tour of the new facility. The opening of the new $10 million Air National Guard airfield fire station greatly enhances our capab ility to respond to any airfield emergency." said with Brig. Gen. Verle L. Johnston Jr., Commander 105th Airlift Wing. "This not only serves our base better by protecting our 13 C-5 aircraft and 14 Marine Corps KC-130 aircraft but also allows us to better serve commercial and general aviation aircraft at Stewart International Airport." The 105th Airlift Wing is one of three Air National Guard units in the country with an operational C-5 mission. The unit's 13 aircraft regularly fly missions around the world in support of America's armed forces. Stewart Air National Guard Base is located just 70 miles North of New York City and has a 60-year proven track record for answering the call to duty both in New York State and around the globe. The 105th AW recently celebrated its 25th anniversary at Stewart ANGB. Media interested in attending should contact the Public Affairs Office at (845) 563-2031.