Mainstream media, letter writers refuse to give Trump credit for many successes

Posted 13 January 2026 at 9:22 am

Editor:

As I peruse the various letters to the editor, I find it interesting how many diehard writers continue to concentrate on the Trump administration and digress on everything wrong with him and his policies.

Although his administration has boosted manufacturing jobs, secured the border, disrupted criminal networks, expanded addiction care access and raised public safety and industry standards, some people fail to concede any good he has done for our nation.

This intentional negativity is meant to divert not only from the truth but from the real issues presently affecting our nation. So after many months of waiting, reading and evaluating the content of such posts, it’s time to broaden the picture.

Let’s start with the explosive fraud brought forth by Nick Shirley in Minnesota, which at first seemed to be an untouchable topic by mainstream media. Only when it no longer could be denied, did they start covering this, but those good old boys just can’t tell the whole truth.

Instead they had to weave their sinister lies within each broadcast, article or newspaper. That was a total flop too. After awhile the picture became so clear and obvious that no denial or coverup could thwart the truth. The pressure cooker’s lid had popped and reality was unleashed. Fraud had become so rampant and apparent, the volcanic effect was now in full swing. New allegations were erupting every day and the initial revelation of daycare fraud had evolved into widespread corruption, abuse and misuse of taxpayer money.

It is estimated that $700 million was found in baggage by Somali couriers leaving the St. Paul International Airport. That’s around $2 million a day over a two year period. Most was transported by the Somali/ American couriers on flights to Somalia and the Middle East. Since the cash was legally declared, no immediate capture or arrest were rendered.

However the Feds are now investigating the movements of this money and suspect money laundering amidst large-scale fraud in Minnesota. Some probes have now indicated that some of this money was transferred to regions in Somalia controlled by al-Shabaab, a known terrorist organization. Is it any wonder Trump sent federal agents there to clean up this mess.

The complete abdication of accountability by the Walz administration shows the deep corruption, not only in the state Medicaid system but within the social services departments as well. Taxpayer money has been diverted from the most vulnerable to, in some cases, illegal immigrants who have been getting health care with other state only Medicaid funds.

When Waltz was warned to produce a corrective action plan by the end of 2025, he did so but his plan was inefficient and didn’t address the fraud and abuse. Hopefully the highest quality of healthcare there can be restored to the most vulnerable.

Venezuela – another misunderstood topic. Venezuela sits on 300 billion barrels of oil; worth over 17 trillion dollars. The US does not need their oil. China does.  They buy over 90 percent of their crude from Venezuela. The oil does not need  to be controlled by our enemies.

Trump understood something that some other countries didn’t. “Power does not come from owning energy, it comes from controlling who gets it.” So if China loses this gem – a  Taiwan War could be avoided. This is called leverage or better still – strategy. Trump is reshaping alliances so peace can be preserved.

The last topic involves the ICE agents who are battered with verbal abuse and put themselves in harm’s way every single day. Their directive is to root out the criminals, the rapists and the illegals. They are doing their job and with any law enforcement organization, they should be treated with the utmost respect and admiration. Yet we see maniacs trying to impede their agenda. Those who choose to obstruct this mission and put fate into their owns hands must be ready to face the consequences.

Little by little, other independent investigators are coming forward with similar revelations in other states. The domino effect is now in full swing, as it should be. Every state needs to guarantee government accountability, adherence to the law and accuracy. This applies to all state agencies, local government and various private receivers of taxpayer money.

The State Comptroller, the Attorney General and the Department of Revenue need to step up their supervision/audit of taxpayer dollars. One would like to assume that this is already being done, but obviously after this fiasco in Minnesota, that’s not the case. It’s time to clean up this corruption.

Every state will undoubtedly be under scrutiny and as more and more fraud is investigated; the corruption which has plagued America for years will be exposed and those responsible should be held accountable and brought to justice.

Maybe it’s time to see the whole picture, to get out of the rut and admit that maybe, just maybe, Trump is trying to save America.

Mary Mager

Fairport, former Albion resident

Ortt, NY Senate Republicans, present ‘Save NY’ legislative agenda

Posted 13 January 2026 at 8:51 am

Provided photo from Rob Ortt’s Office: State Senate Republican Leader Rob Ortt joins his Republican colleagues in the State Senate on Monday to present their “Save New York” agenda in the upcoming legislative session.

Press Release, State Senate Republican Leader Rob Ortt

ALBANY – Senate Republican Leader Rob Ortt and members of the Senate Republican Conference on Monday unveiled “Save New York,” a comprehensive legislative agenda of policy goals for 2026 aimed at combating Democrat one-party rule in New York State.

The Senate Republican agenda prioritizes hardworking New Yorkers – the New Yorkers left behind by radical, progressive policies coming out of Albany.

New York State is in a time of crisis. The decisions made and policies pushed by Albany’s ruling party have delivered a state that is among the, if not the most unaffordable states in the nation, Ortt said.

A state that drives existing businesses out and discourages new opportunity at every turn. A state where the priorities of career criminals are placed above the needs of the law-abiding citizen. A state in a downward spiral. This is not the recipe for a sustainable future, Ortt said.

The Senate Republican Conference is offering a common sense alternative– a plan based in reality that will deliver a better New York for its hardworking citizens.

“New York is one of the most beautiful states in the nation, and we should have people lining up who want to live and do business here,” Ortt said. “Instead, people are leaving thanks to dangerous and out-of-touch policies championed by far-left lawmakers that have turned our state into a dystopian nightmare. The Republican conference stands ready to Save New York and restore sanity through common-sense policies.”

“Save New York” is a plan to improve affordability, enhance public safety, and build a stronger New York for today and future generations:

  • Provide Affordability and Economic Opportunity
  • Create a Safer, Healthier, More Responsible New York
  • Protect Students and Defend Parental Rights
  • Hold Government Accountable

More details of the New York State Senate Republicans’ “Save New York,” 2026 legislative agenda will be unveiled in the coming weeks. To read more, click here.

Steven Ploof, former chief deputy in Orleans, pleads guilty to reckless endangerment

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 13 January 2026 at 8:33 am

Steven Ploof

ROCHESTER – Steven Ploof, who briefly was chief deputy of the Orleans County Sheriff’s Office in 2023, pleaded guilty last Thursday to reckless endangerment in Monroe County. He allegedly threatened an FBI agent.

Ploof, 48, on Sept. 15 also was charged with attempted aggravated assault on a police officer, two counts of menacing a police officer, three counts of first-degree reckless endangerment, second-degree obstruction of governmental administration, and resisting arrest.

Ploof, who worked 16 years for the Ogden Police Department, resigned from the Orleans County after being put on administrative leave relating to suspected drug use, according to Channel 10 News in Rochester. As chief deputy he was tasked with providing oversight of the Civil Division and the numerous local, state and federal grants managed by the Sheriff’s Office.

Ploof was accused of threatening an FBI agent after he allegedly left posters with threatening messages on the porch of an FBI agent assigned to FBI’s Rochester Resident Agency, Channel 10 reported.

While executing a state search warrant, Greece Police officers also found a threatening message towards the FBI written on Ploof’s bedroom wall.

Greece officers saw Ploof on Sept. 15 when they were doing a welfare check on him. Ploof then tried to hit them with his car, and attempted to turn a spray can into a makeshift torch, and had a machete.

The officers tased Ploof, detained him, and brought him to Rochester General Hospital. The next day, Ploof had escaped from the hospital, which prompted a lockdown.

Ploof also threatened his own family members, and made threats at his apartment complex, Channel 10 reported.

Ploof is scheduled to be sentenced on Feb. 5.

Several from Orleans named to Dean’s List at Nazareth

Staff Reports Posted 13 January 2026 at 8:04 am

ROCHESTER – Several students from Orleans County have been named to the Dean’s List at Nazareth University for the fall semester. Those students include:

  • Tyana Burroughs of Kendall
  • Hailey Crawford of Albion
  • Riley Tompkins of Medina
  • Raine Baker of Lyndonville
  • Kailie Regan of Holley
  • Faith Bennett of Albion
  • Olivia Belgiorno of Waterport
  • Ryder Jones of Medina
  • Makenzie McGrath of Medina

A student’s grade point average must be at least 3.5 or above, and they must complete 12 credit hours of graded work that semester in order to be included on the Dean’s List at Nazareth.

Average gas prices fall below $3 in NYS; $3.22 average in Orleans

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 12 January 2026 at 9:45 pm

The average price for regular unleaded gas has dipped below $3 a gallon in New York State. AAA reported the state-wide price in NY is at $2.998 per gallon today. That is down from $3.03 a week ago and $3.14 a year ago.

Nationally, the average price is at $2.80 a gallon compared to $3.07 a year ago, according to AAA.

“The new year is bringing lowest gas prices the nation has seen since 2021,” AAA said. “While the national average is well below the $3 threshold, the New York average has reached that mark dipping just below $3 per gallon with prices in the state capital, Albany, at $2.98. In Central New York, Syracuse is also at $2,98 while Elmira’s average is $2.80. Prices in other areas should continue to drop if oil prices remain low. This morning, oil prices range from $58 to $63 per barrel.”

Diesel prices are also on the decline, AAA reported. The national average is $3.50 – down two cents from last Monday. The New York average is $3.86, down a penny from a week ago.

Here are the average prices in WNY counties:

  • Orleans, $3.222
  • Genesee, $3.048
  • Niagara, $3.075
  • Monroe, $3.081
  • Livingston, $3.128
  • Wyoming, $3.172
  • Erie, $3.102
  • Chautauqua, $3.213
  • Cattaraugus, $3.065
  • Allegany, $3.186

Finney rallies late to down Kendall

By Mike Wertman, Sports Writer Posted 12 January 2026 at 8:51 pm

Putting together a big fourth quarter scoring surge, CG Finney rallied to defeat Kendall 55-49 in a non league boys basketball game this evening at Kendall.

Trailing 39-35 at the end of the third period, Finney rallied to outpoint Kendall 20-10 in the decisive final period to claim the win and improve to 9-1.

Braelen Broome scored 7, including a three, to lead the way in the fourth quarter for the Falcons which also got threes from Judaea Danesi and David Maijas down the stretch.

Vinnie D’Agostino scored 19 on the evening and Ryan Gaesser 10 to lead the way for Kendall as Jonny Conte added 8, Sammy Conte 6, Jonas Rhodes 5 and CJ D’Agostino 1.

Kendall held leads of 15-11 at the end of the first quarter, 31-19 at the half and 39-35 at the three-quarter mark.

Vinnie D’Agostino scored 7 and Jonny Conte 6 on two threes in the opening quarter. Gaesser then tallied 8, including two threes, and Vinnie D’Agostino 6 in the second period.

However, the Eagles managed a total of only 18 in the second half as the Falcons rallied to tally 36.

Now at 6-3, Kendall next visits rival Holley at 7 p.m. Wednesday in a Genesee Region League game.

Community Action, Oak Orchard Bowl team up for new fundraiser

Posted 12 January 2026 at 5:14 pm

March 1 tournament will benefit agency’s transportation services

Press Release, Community Action of Orleans & Genesee

ALBION – Community Action of Orleans & Genesee is teaming up with Oak Orchard Bowl to host a first-time fundraiser to raise proceeds to support Orleans County residents with transportation services through Community Action’s Transportation System.

Community members are invited to lace up their bowling shoes and join an exciting No-Tap Bowling Tournament Fundraiser on Sunday, March 1, at Oak Orchard Bowl, located at 3291 Oak Orchard Rd. in Albion.

This high-energy event promises fun for bowlers of all skill levels while supporting a cause that keeps our community moving. All proceeds will stay local, helping to support essential transportation needs within the community.

In addition to no-tap bowling action, participants and spectators can enjoy basket raffles, a 50/50 raffle and prize payouts.

Whether you’re bowling for bragging rights, prizes, or simply to support your neighbors, this event is a great way to give back while having a blast.

Registration details

3 squads from 12 p.m., 2 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. with a $75 entry fee per team. The handicap is 90% of 225. If no average is established, women will use 150 and men will use 190. Payout is 1:6.

Reserve a spot by contacting Oak Orchard Bowl at 585-589-6900 or call Alishia at 585-297-8350.

If you would like to donate a basket, contact Melinda Daniels at 585-590-4042

Sarah Cassidy’s 300 game makes history

Contributed Story Posted 12 January 2026 at 4:47 pm

Contributed Photo – Sarah Cassidy rolls a 300 game making history at Oak Orchard Lanes.

By Mike Pettinella

Sarah Cassidy said her legs were shaking during the 10th frame of her first game earlier this week in the Tuesday Ladies Merchants League at Oak Orchard Bowl in Albion.

With nine straight strikes showing on the overhead scoring monitor, Cassidy stepped onto the approach on lane 9, needing three more strikes to record the first 300 game by a woman in the 65-year history of her hometown bowling center.

The 44-year-old right-hander overcame her jitters by placing the final three balls in the 1-3 pocket and carrying all 10 pins each time for the perfect game.

Cassidy bowls for the Pretty Sweet Bakery team along with Judy Ward, Pam Jenks and her daughter, Emily Cassidy – who, along with other league members, greeted her with hugs and high-fives as she returned to the settee area.

“It is pretty exciting,” said Cassidy, who admitted that nervousness began to set in after she posted her seventh consecutive strike. “People started noticing. Thankfully, Sue Boring was bowling next to us and she was able to calm me down.”

The 300 game eclipsed Cassidy’s previous high game of 284 and raised her average to 177. Her other games were 182 and 147 for a 629 series.

Last season, Cassidy, who is employed as a billing specialist for a law firm, had a 189 average.

“Things have been coming together lately,” she said. “I just missed a 700 series (recently).”

Community lost an honorable man with passing of Jim Zelazny

Posted 12 January 2026 at 3:18 pm

Editor:

We would like to acknowledge the passing of Jim Zelazny, who left us shortly before Thanksgiving.

Jim gave years of steady, principled service to the Town of Shelby. He was a regular presence at Town and community meetings for more than a decade. He followed the public record, stayed engaged, and did the unglamorous civic work that supports effective local government.

Behind the scenes, Jim helped create positive change in Shelby, often without credit or fanfare. He also served as the treasurer of the Shelby Republican Committee, a position that required sustained attention to detail and a strong respect for process.

Jim improved Shelby in practical ways, often behind the scenes and always with integrity. His contributions were not loud or performative. He was honest, direct, and acted in good faith. He listened carefully, took notes, and paid close attention to procedure. When a process slipped or transparency broke down, Jim asked questions and pressed for clarity. He supported lawful processes and accurate public recordkeeping because public accountability matters.

Jim Zelazny showed what it means to be an engaged citizen. He led without seeking attention and treated people with respect. The example he set is a reminder that communities are sustained by residents who stay involved, pay attention, and participate. A meaningful way to honor him is for more people to step forward and do the same.

We are grateful not only for the time Jim Zelazny gave, but for the friendship and the privilege of having known him.

Sincerely,

Gabrielle Barone

Andina Barone

Linda Limina

Medina

GO Health announces new online tool for mental health

Posted 12 January 2026 at 12:37 pm

Press Release, Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments

Genesee and Orleans counties are excited to share CredibleMind, a new online tool to help residents take care of their mental health and overall well-being.

This platform is offered through a partnership between Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments (GO Health) and the Genesee and Orleans County Mental Health Departments.

CredibleMind offers easy-to-use, confidential, and trusted resources for anyone, whether they are dealing with stress, anxiety, depression or just want to support their mental wellness.

Residents can explore articles, videos, podcasts and self-check tools on more than 100 topics, including stress, relationships, sleep, mindfulness and grief. The platform works like a personal digital guide, using short assessments to suggest resources that fit each person’s needs and goals. It also helps residents connect with local mental health services.

“Taking care of mental health is an important part of overall health,” said Paul Pettit, Public Health Director of GO Health. “CredibleMind gives people a safe and easy way to get help anytime they need it.”

“We want to make it easier for people to get mental health care,” said Lynda Battaglia, Director of Genesee County Mental Health Department. “CredibleMind lets residents get help in a way that works for them. It can make asking for help less scary and more effective.”

“We want every resident to be able to take care of their mental wellness,” said Danielle Figura, Director of Orleans County Mental Health Department. “This partnership helps our community connect with mental health support, especially for people who may not know where to start.”

Residents can visit CredibleMind at Genesee-OrleansNY.CredibleMind.com to look at trusted resources, take self-checks, and find tools to support their mental health and well-being.

Albion seventh-graders hear from Sons of the American Revolution

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 12 January 2026 at 10:31 am

Photos courtesy of Tim Archer, Albion teacher

ALBION – The Sons of the American Revolution visited seventh-graders in Albion Middle School last week and discussed solider life and gear, important events, uniforms, weaponry and other topics.

The SAR promotes patriotic, historical and educational themes, while perpetuating the memory of Revolutionary War patriots. Promoting fellowship among their descendants, they seek to inspire the community with a reverence for principles of government foundered by our forefathers.

This year is the 250th anniversary of when the United States of America declared its independence.

Luci Borello and Sutton Sanders, Albion eighth-graders, are shown with members of the Sons of the American Revolution.

The two students are working on a burials’ list of Revolutionary War soldiers in Orleans County.

Tim Archer, service-learning teacher at Albion, also said students will be unveiling four roadside historical markers this year in the county that highlight local connections to the Revolutionary War.

The markers were funded through the Pomeroy Foundation.

Bruce Pritchett, a social studies teacher, and his students look over a rifle brought in by the Sons of the American Revolution.

Orleans County would benefit from more active Democratic Party

Posted 12 January 2026 at 9:20 am

Editor:

I suggest it is time for the Orleans County Democratic Party to become more active.  Summer picnics are nice, but it should use other county Democratic parties as examples and hit the streets.

The Dems should hold rallies in all Orleans towns to make their views known, conduct marches to publicize its agenda and go door to door explaining the party platform.

In essence the Democrats have been doing the same thing election after election and expecting different results. And the results have been a disaster. Could it be time for new leadership with new ideas?

Jack Capurso

Ashburn, Va.

Mr. Capurso is an Albion High School graduate, Class of 1960.

Shelby Volunteer Fire Company installs officers, recognizes top responders

By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 12 January 2026 at 8:36 am

Photos by Ginny Kropf: Andy Benz presided at the installation of officers of the Shelby Volunteer Fire Company.

 

Orleans County Clerk Nadine Hanlon installed officers of the Shelby Volunteer Fire Company’s Ladies Auxiliary Saturday night.

Hunter Sturtevant, left, and Zach Petry presented David Moden with a chief’s hard hat for his years of service.

MEDINA – Shelby Volunteer Fire Company and Auxiliary welcomed members and guests to their 57th annual installation of officers banquet Saturday night.

Jason Watts served as master of ceremonies, while his father Howard Watts and Auxiliary president Elaine Watts welcomed guests. The evening began with invocation and memorial service by chaplain Karl Haist Jr. Haist reported they had lost six members during 2025 – Tom Fuller, Jim Watts, Fred Filipowicz, Charles “Huck” Fuller, Edward Pray and Elroy Fuller.

The fire company also reported seven new members were added during 2025.

Andy Benz was the installing officer for the fire department. He said he considered the job as an honor.

“A few of the names stick out tonight,” Benz said. “In the past I had given out five chief’s awards and all five of them are still here tonight, and still dedicated.”

Fire company officers installed are president, Kirk Myhill; vice president, Howard Watts; treasurer, Tyler Root; assistant treasurer, Michael Saladeen; secretary, Kali Sturtevant; sergeant-at-arms, Dale Watts; chaplain, Karl Haist Jr.; assistant chaplain, Phil Keppler; and steward, Gary Watts.

Also, trustees – Nick DiCureia, for three years; Ron Smith, two years; and Bill Luckman, one year.

Firematic officers are chief, Zachary Petry;  deputy chief, Hunter Sturtevant; assistant chief, Joe Kyle; firematic captain, Marcus Watts; firematic lieutenant, Alex Benz; EMS captain, Jake Quackenbush; and EMS lieutenant, Donnell Bennett.

County Clerk Nadine Hanlon installed Ladies Auxiliary members: president, Elaine Watts; vice president, Brianna Wheeler; secretary, Robyn Watts; treasurer, Lori Myhill; chaplain, Marian Fry; and trustees for one year, Sherry Wheatley; and two years, Mary Herbert.

Elaine Watts, left, president of the Shelby Ladies’ Auxiliary, presented flowers to dedicated members Lori Myhill, Robyn Watts and Marian Fry.

The presentation of special awards began with Howard Watts recognizing David Moden for 34 years of active duty. Moden was also presented with a chief’s hard hat by Hunter Sturtevant and Zach Petry.

Andrea Benz received the President’s Award for stepping up to work on the bylaws and chairing the Christmas party, while completing her teaching degree and planning a fall wedding.

“I can see her being a future president,” Howard said.

The Chief’s Award was presented to Mark Reigle, for consistently leading with his willingness to step up and serve.

Elaine Watts, president of the Ladies Auxiliary, said it was hard to single out one recipient for an award. Instead, she presented flowers to Lori Myhill, Robyn Watts and Marian Fry and announced she would take all the ladies out to eat.

(Left) Howard Watts, left, presents a certificate to Kirk Myhill for 50 years of membership to the Shelby Volunteer Fire Company. (Right) Jason Watts, left, and his father Howard Watts are ready to greet guests at Shelby Volunteer Fire Company’s 57th annual installation of officers banquet Saturday night. Jason served as master of ceremonies, while Howard welcomed guests.

Moden recapped the fire company’s activity in 2025, announcing their 240 calls was fewer than in recent years. Fifty-one percent of the calls were EMS and 16 percent were mutual aid.

Moden also recognized the top 10 responders for 2025. They are Zach Petry, 75% or 181 calls; Moden, 75%; Howard Watts, 67%; Chris Stacewich, 63%; Jake Quackenbush, 52%; Hunter Sturtevant, 47%; Ed Quackenbush, 44%; John Rotoli, 43%; Alex Benz, 41% and Donnell Bennett, 36%.

For his efforts, Petry will receive an embroidered jacket.

“This level of commitment doesn’t happen by accident,” Moden said.

Moden also reported the fire company had received a $95,000 AFG grant last year which will be used to install vehicle exhaust stations. This year they plan to apply for a $300,000 grant to purchase new turnout gear.

Rounding out the evening was dinner catered by The Hilltop in Lockport and music by Beamin’ Sounds.

Members of the Shelby Volunteer Fire Company’s Ladies Auxiliary take the oath of office that was administered by County Clerk Nadine Hanlon.

Medina and Barker/Roy-Hart have Class C All State football honorees

By Mike Wertman, Sports Writer Posted 12 January 2026 at 7:15 am

Photos by Cheryl Wertman – Medina’s Christian Moss, left, and Barker/Roy-Hart’s Vinny Fazzio have earned All State football honors.

Two local players, Medina senior running back/defensive end Christian Moss and Barker/Roy-Hart senior linebacker/running back Vinny Fazzio have been named to the second team of the Class C All State football squad.

Moss rushed for 1,138 yards and 16 touchdowns and caught 13 passes for 185 yards and 2 touchdowns. On defense he had 50 tackles, 1 sack and 1 fumble recovery.

Fazzio led the Barker/Roy-Hart defense with 72 tackles, including 51 solo, 8 fumble recoveries and 1 interception. On offense he rushed for 384 yards and 7 touchdowns and caught 13 passes for 256 yards and 5 touchdowns.

The Class C squad also had Akron seniors Blake Gerstung and Colin Miller earn Honorable Mention.

The All State Class D squad includes a total of 13 Newfane and Wilson players.

Earning first team offensive unit honors are Newfane senior quarterback Mac Capen and Wilson senior wide receiver Ryan Hough.

The first team defensive unit includes Wilson senior linebacker Brock Lepsch and Newfane senior defensive linemen Colin Doxey.

Earning second team offensive unit honors are Newfane senior end Isiah Gerstung and Wilson senior running back Michael Ruble.

The second team defensive unit includes senior lineman Koa Leapai and Wilson junior lineman Nasir Spencer.

Five players also earned Honorable Mention including Newfane defensive lineman Tristian Smith, junior linebacker Jake Morelli and defensive back Camro Flowers along with the Wilson duo of senior defensive back Josiah Lawrence and junior place kicker Connor Woodworth.

New Commander sworn in to lead NY Air National Guard

Posted 11 January 2026 at 8:08 pm

Press Release, New York National Guard

U.S. Army National Guard photos by Stephanie Butler: Army National Guard Major General Ray Shields, left, the adjutant general of New York, presents the guidon of the New York Air National Guard to Air National Guard Major General Gary Charlton II, during promotion and change of command ceremonies held on January 9 at New York National Guard headquarters in Latham. Charlton is now the commander of the 5,800 men and women of the New York Air National Guard, the largest Air Guard component in the nation.

LATHAM, NY – An Air Guard officer who started as an enlisted Airman and served in the Persian Gulf War, Iraq and Afghanistan, assumed command of the New York Air National Guard during a ceremony on Friday at New York National Guard headquarters in Latham.

Major General Gary Charlton II, who has also commanded the New York Air Guard’s 107th Attack Wing in Niagara Falls, and the 105th Airlift Wing in Newburgh, now heads the largest Air National Guard in the United States.

Charlton, who lives in the Albany suburb of Loudonville, replaced Major General Michael Bank, who is retiring after 37 years of service.

He has been serving as assistant adjutant general, Air for the New York National Guard and will now serve simultaneously in both assignments.

Charlton was promoted from one-star brigadier general to two-star major general before assuming command of the New York Air Guard.

Major General Ray Shields, the adjutant general of New York, and the presiding officer for the ceremony, said Charlton was the “right leader” to command New York’s Airmen.

“You have the opportunity to continue to build the New York Air National Guard and to take the organization to new levels of professionalism,” Shields told Charlton.

In his remarks, Charlton thanked his wife, Susan and his daughters, Megan and Ginger, as well as his extended family, for their support over the years.

“You have carried this career as much as I have,” he said.

Charlton said his years as an enlisted Airmen shaped his command style as an officer.

“Before I ever wore a commission, I wore stripes,” Charlton said.

“I learned that the best ideas often come from the flightline, the shop floor and the Airmen who make the mission happen,” he said.

“Leader is not about a position, it’s about people, it’s about listening before speaking, serving before leading, and earning trust every single day,” Charlton told his audience.

The members of the New York Air Guard are the “embodiment of versatility and excellence,” he said.

Air National Guard Major General Gary Charlton II has new two-star general stars pinned on by his daughters during promotion and change of command ceremonies held on Jan. 9.

Charlton, who is a command pilot with more than 3,400 hours in a variety of aircraft, started his Air National Guard career by enlisting in the 174th Fighter Wing at Hancock Field Air National Guard Base, in 1990 as a fuel system technician. He deployed with the wing’s F-16s to the Middle East in 1990/ 91 as part of Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm.

In 2000, he was commissioned as a second lieutenant and became an F-16 pilot. Charlton served in the 138th Fighter Squadron and made the transition from the F-16 to the remotely piloted MQ-9, when the 174th converted to an attack wing from 2010 to 2012.

Charlton served as the commander of the 138th Attack Squadron before being reassigned to the 107th Attack Wing at Niagara Falls Air Reserve Station. He served as the command of the wing’s operations group and then wing vice commander before commanding the 107th from 2018 to 2022.

From 2022 to 2024, Charlton served as commander of the 105th Airlift Wing, the C-17 Globemaster III unit based at Stewart Air National Guard Base in Newburgh. He was promoted to brigadier general in June of 2022, while leading the 105th Airlift Wing.

He left command of the 105th in 2024 and served briefly as the director of operations for the Air National Guard Bureau’s operations section, before returning to New York to assume his current position.

Charlton holds a Bachelor of Arts in psychology from Columbia College and is a graduate of the Air Command and Staff College and the Air War College. He is a graduate of the National Security Studies Program at Syracuse University and the General and Flag Officer Seminar conducted by Harvard University.

Charlton’s military awards include the Legion of Merit, the Meritorious Service Medal the Air Medal. The Aerial Achievement Medal and campaign medals for his military deployments.

The New York Air National Guard, with over 5,800 Airmen serving in five air wings and the Eastern Air Defense Sector is the largest Air National Guard in the country.

The New York Air Guard also includes the 109th Airlift Wing at Stratton Air National Guard Base in Scotia, and the 106th Rescue Wing at Francis S. Gabreski Air National Guard base in Westhampton Beach.

The Eastern Air Defense Sector is responsible for the air defense of the United States east of the Mississippi as part of the North American Aerospace Defense Command.