Ballston Spa Army National Guard Soldier Reenlists

• by New York State Division of Military & Naval Affairs

LATHAM, NY (09/14/2009)(readMedia)-- Maj. Gen. Joseph J. Taluto, The Adjutant General, announces the recent reenlistment of members of the New York Army National Guard in recognition of their continuing commitment to serve community, state and nation as part of the Army National Guard.

Specialist William Jirak from Ballston Spa, NY (postal code 12020) has reenlisted to continue service with the Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2-108 Infantry.

"I'm especially proud to say that the New York Army National Guard and New York Air National Guard have both reached full strength," Taluto said in remarks to the force.

"This is something many have never thought possible in their careers and still we continue to grow," Taluto said.

The New York Army National Guard exceeded 100 percent of its authorized strength in Dec. 2008 and is on track to meet its year-end strength goal at the end of the fiscal year on September 30 with a current force of 10, 368 out of a year end goal of 10,400.

"As our force increases in strength, we are able to retain or even add more structure to better meet both state and federal missions. We are well postured for our role in state and national defense," Taluto said.

This is the first time since the Vietnam War era that the New York Army National Guard has been at 100 percent strength. This is due to a combination of aggressive recruiting and the retention of the experienced veteran Soldiers of the force.

For more information about the New York Army National Guard, visit www.dmna.state.ny.us or www.1800goguard.com.