Maj. Todd Balog, Afghanistan veteran and Saratoga Springs resident, will take command of New York Army National Guard Special Troops Battalion

New York Army National Guard Maj. Todd Balog, a Saratoga Springs resident and Afghanistan veteran will take command of the 369th Special Troops Battalion, on Sunday, October 22 at the Camp Smith Training Site in Cortlandt Manor, N.Y.

Balog earned his commission as a second lieutenant from Michigan State University Army ROTC program in August 2001 and served as an Armor Officer for the Active Duty Army for six years.

In 2007 Balog joined the New York Army National Guard and currently serves full time as part of the Joint Staff in the New York National Guard Headquarters. He is currently the Force Development Officer, for the Joint Training & Exercises Division.

In 2012, Major Balog deployed to Afghanistan for a combat tour with the Headquarters Company, 427th Brigade Support Battalion as a Base Closure Team Leader in Regional Command East.

In February 2013, upon return from Afghanistan, Major Balog served as the 42d Infantry Division Headquarters Battalion Executive Officer in Troy and then was assigned to the Joint Staff in the New York National Guard Headquarters in Latham.

Balog holds a Bachelor's degree from Michigan State University in Criminal Justice from Michigan State University.

Balog is a graduate of the Armor Officer Basic Course, Scout Leader Course, Adjutant General Captains Career Course and Command & General Staff Officers Courses.

Balog's awards and decorations include; the Bronze Star Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal, the Army Commendation Medal, the Army Achievement Medal, the Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Afghanistan Campaign Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Serve Medal, the NATO Medal, the Combat Action Badge, the Army Parachutist Badge and the US Cavalry Spur Holder.

Balog is married to his wife Amy and they have two sons named Hyrum and Aiden.

To view these members click here: http://dmna-ny.meritpages.com/achievements/Maj-Todd-Balog-Afghanistan-veteran-and-Saratoga-Springs-resident-will-take-command-of-New-York-Army-National-Guard-Special-Troops-Battalion/80253