Rome resident is Honor Guard member of the year at Eastern Air Defense Sector

The Eastern Air Defense Sector (EADS) and the New York Air National Guard's 224th Air Defense Group (ADG) have named their annual award winners for the past year.

"The nation's air defense mission requires engaged and consistent excellence from all of our members," said Col. Joseph F. Roos, 224th ADG Commander. "The COVID-19 pandemic made this past year unusually difficult and our winners distinguished themselves by exceeding our demanding requirements. I congratulate them on their outstanding accomplishments and thank them for their efforts."

Award recipients included:

Tech. Sgt. Ryan LaClair, Rome, N.Y., Outstanding Honor Guard Member. A weapons director at the 224th Air Defense Squadron, LaClair volunteered for Honor Guard service and participated in details on his personal time. LaClair served as the Honor Guard flag-barer at Rome's Honor America Days, the Griffiss Park Vietnam Memorial dedication, and at EADS 9/11 Remembrance ceremony, which was attended by more than 200 guests. He also served as part of Honor Guard details at six funerals for local veterans.

The 224th ADG is composed of the 224th Air Defense Squadron and 224th Support Squadron located in Rome, and Detachment 1 and Detachment 2 that serve in the Washington, D.C. area. The 224th ADG provides the forces to conduct the Eastern Air Defense Sector's mission. Part of the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD), the Sector is responsible for the air defense of the eastern U.S.

For more information about the New York Air National Guard, visit www.dmna.ny.gov. For more information on the Eastern Air Defense Sector and the 224th Air Defense Group, visit www.eads.ang.af.mil.