CONTACT: Mr. Eric Durr at 518-786-4581 or (cell) 518-429-5186

FOR RELEASE: Thursday, May 21, 2009

ON SITE: Mr. Eric Durr at 518-786-4581 or (cell) 518-429-5186

WHO:

The state and federal, civilian employees and military personnel of the Joint Forces Headquarters-New York and the Division of Military and Naval Affairs.

WHAT:

The Division of Military and Naval Affairs headquarters will hold a brief pre-Memorial Day ceremony honoring the 31 members of the New York Army National Guard and one member of the Naval Militia, who have died on active duty in a combat zone since September 11, 2001. A memorial ceremony to remember the 31 members of the N.Y. Army National Guard and one member of the N.Y. Naval Militia lost in Operation Iraqi Freedom.

WHEN:

2:30 p.m., Thursday, May 21, 2009

WHERE:

Division of Military & Naval Affairs, State Headquarters, 330 Old Niskayuna Road, Latham.

Coverage Opportunities: The New York Military Forces Honor Guard firing party will fire a 21-gun Salute as part of the ceremony. The Honor Guard will also post the colors. New York Army National Guard Command Sergeant Major Robert Van Pelt will ring a bell to commemorate each fallen Soldier. Major General Joseph Taluto, the Adjutant General, will deliver brief remarks. Members of the media who want access to this secure facility to cover the event should contact the Division of Military and Naval Affairs Public Affairs Office at 518-786-4581 no later than 1 p.m. on May 21.