12/09/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 12/09/2024 17:24
Presents Citations to Four Individuals, Two Groups of Defense Force Members
New York National Guard Led the Nation in Recruitment and Retention Last Year
Governor Kathy Hochul today recognized the extraordinary service of New York State's defense forces by presenting citations to four individuals and two groups of defense force members who have gone above and beyond in fulfilling their missions and representing our state and nation to the world. Major General Michel Natali, Assistant Adjutant General of the New York National Guard, joined Governor Hochul for tomorrow's ceremony.
"New York State's defense forces are a model for service and excellence around the globe," Governor Hochul said. "By recognizing these individuals and organizations for their exemplary acts of service, we are elevating their devotion to protecting New Yorkers, and committing ourselves to the same."
Last year, the New York National Guard led the nation in recruitment and retention, and the federal government ranked the New York National Guard number one for "strength health." Recently, New York National Guard personnel helped respond to extreme weather events, provided asylum seeker resource support, and was deployed to the NYC subway system to support public safety efforts. Joint Task Force-Empire Shield was formed in the aftermath of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, and serves as security force partly responsible for the military defense of New York City. Every day, Joint Task Force-Empire Shield is protecting the major transportation hubs and networks assisting law enforcement, including the subway system. About 100 members of New York's defense forces who responded to the terrorist attacks are still on duty today.
The Governor presented citations to: Corporal Patricio Rubilar, NY Naval Militia; Sergeant Brian Salcedo, NY Naval Militia; and Sergeant Desany Jacques, New York Army National Guard and SSG Joel Strickland, New York Army National Guard.
Citation Recipients:
Corporal Patricio Rubilar, NY Naval Militia: On June 12, 2024, while assigned to the Bellerose Inn, Corporal Rubilar was notified by the parent of an asylum seeker that his six-year-old was choking. Corporal Rubilar immediately responded to the room where he found a six-year-old choking on an object. Without hesitation, Cpl. Rubilar cleared the obstructed airway by performing the Heimlich maneuver, ultimately saving the six-year-old's life.
About New York State's Defense Forces
New York State's defense forces are a model for service and excellence around the globe"
New York State Adjutant General Raymond Shields said, "I want to thank Governor Hochul for recognition of the men and women of the New York National Guard and New York Naval Militia, and the efforts they make every day to aid our fellow New Yorkers and defend the United States of America. We are proud to serve our state and nation and the people of the communities we live in across the State."
New York State Assistant Adjutant General Michel Natali said, "The Citizen Soldiers and Airmen of the New York National Guard are proud of our 350-year history of defending our state and nation when called upon. Members of the National Guard, and the New York Naval Militia, are part of communities across our state and we are honored to be able to serve our friends and neighbors when needed. I want to thank Governor Hochul for taking the time to recognize that service."
State Senator Cordell Cleare said, "I am happy that Governor Hochul is recognizing the National Guard. These two officers are prime examples of their bravery and selflessness. We hold the National Guard in the highest esteem. We thank their members for their service and dedication. The work they do seen and unseen protects us daily in the state of New York."
Assemblymember Kimberly Jean Pierre said, "As Chair of the Veterans' Affairs Committee, I am deeply humbled to stand alongside Governor Hochul in honoring the remarkable courage and dedication of New York State's defense forces. The individuals and groups we recognize today have shown an extraordinary commitment to protecting our communities. Their selfless actions are a powerful reminder of how much we rely on them to ensure the safety and well-being of every New Yorker. From the life-saving heroics of Corporals Patricio Rubilar and Brian Salcedo, to the swift and decisive actions of SSG Joel Strickland and Sergeant Desany Jacques, and the steadfast leadership of Colonel Jeffrey Roth and Colonel Glyn Weir, these are just a few shining examples of the everyday bravery and dedication within our ranks. The men and women of the Joint Task Force-Empire Shield and the 106th Rescue Wing go above and beyond in their service, and their sacrifices do not go unnoticed. We owe each of them our deepest gratitude for their unwavering dedication to both our state and our nation."