New Mexico National Guard

06/02/2026

44th Army Band participates in WSMR promotion ceremony

WHITE SANDS MISSILE RANGE, N.M. – Members of our 44th Army Band participated in a May 28 ceremony here where Brig. Gen. Andrew Morgan was promoted to his current rank.

Morgan is the commander of White Sands Missile Range. An Army Astronaut and Space Operations Officer, Morgan was joined by two members of the recent Artemis II mission.

Victor Glover and Christina Koch, the Artemis II astronauts, graciously posed for a picture with the 44th Army Band Soldiers.

Sgt. 1st Class Paul McLaughlin, Staff Sgt. Xinyu Yang, Sgt. Laura Pirard, Sgt. Elijah Eggleston and Sgt. Edmund Strominger represented the 44th Army Band and the New Mexico National Guard.

(Photos courtesy of Sgt. 1st Class Rebekah Delgado, 44th Army Band)

06/01/2026

New Mexico National Guard Participates in America 250 Celebration and Revolutionary War Patriots Marker Dedication

By Hank Minitrez
NM National Guard Public Affairs Director

SILVER CITY, N.M. — Brig. Gen. Nathaniel Carper, deputy adjutant general of the New Mexico National Guard, joined community leaders, elected officials and members of the Daughters of the American Revolution on May 30 for Silver City's America 250 Celebration and Revolutionary War Patriots Marker Dedication.

Hosted by the Jacob Bennett Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution, the event commemorated the approaching 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence and honored the sacrifices and contributions of Revolutionary War patriots whose legacy helped shape the nation.

The ceremony included patriotic readings, the dedication of a Revolutionary War Patriots Marker, the placement of a time capsule, and remarks from civic and community leaders.

Among those in attendance were New Mexico State Rep. Luis M. Terrazas, Silver City Mayor Simon Wheaton-Smith, distinguished members of the DAR and community residents who gathered to celebrate the nation's founding principles and history.

Speaking during the ceremony, Carper emphasized the importance of preserving America's history and ensuring future generations understand the sacrifices that secured the nation's independence.

"The Jacob Bennett Chapter of the DAR has always understood that honoring our past is the best way to inspire our future," said Carper. "That is why the dedication of this Patriot Marker is so vital. It ensures that the sacrifices of all who fought—and all who contributed, from the East Coast to the Southwest—are never forgotten."

The marker dedication served as a lasting tribute to Revolutionary War patriots and highlighted New Mexico's connection to the broader American story.

Organizers noted that while the Revolutionary War was fought thousands of miles away, the ideals born during the nation's founding continue to unite communities across the country.

As part of the America 250 observance, participants also placed items into a time capsule intended to be opened during the nation's 300th anniversary celebration in 2076.

Carper reflected on the significance of the moment and the message being sent to future generations.

"Fifty years from now, when Silver City gathers to celebrate America's Tricentennial on July 4, 2076, this capsule will be opened," said Carper. "Though none of us can know exactly what the world will look like in 2076, we do know this: the words you write today will bridge the centuries. We are sending a message to the future that the spirit of 1776 is alive, well, and deeply rooted in Silver City."

The event underscored the enduring connection between military service, civic responsibility and remembrance.

For the New Mexico National Guard, participation in community events such as the America 250 Celebration reflects its longstanding commitment to preserving the values of service, citizenship and patriotism that have guided the nation since its founding.

As the United States prepares to mark its 250th anniversary in 2026, communities across New Mexico continue to honor the people and principles that shaped the nation's history while inspiring future generations to carry that legacy forward.

05/29/2026

Congratulations are in order!

05/28/2026

RTI conducts driver’s training for staff

By Douglas Mallary, NMNG Public Affairs Office

SANTA FE, N.M. – Instructors at the 515th Regiment (Regional Training Institute) are taking advantage of a break between courses to conduct driver’s training for assigned personnel.

Driver’s training began with classroom instruction on Tuesday. Under the watchful eyes of the instructors, students maneuvered through an assortment of traffic cones and barriers on Wednesday. Today is the road test with tomorrow as a make-up day.

Sgt. 1st Class Gabrialle Brunwasser from the regiment’s Operations (S-3) section and Sgt. 1st Class John Crespin, Course Manager for the Motor Transport Operator Course (MTOC), are overseeing the instruction. Both are certified Master Drivers.

“Our regiment is conducting driver’s training to ensure the safety and preparedness of our Soldiers and the community. By providing comprehensive instruction and hands-on experience, we equip our personnel with the skills needed to operate military vehicles responsibly and effectively,” Brunwasser said.

“This training not only reduces the risk of accidents and equipment damage but also enhances our operational readiness, allowing us to respond quickly and efficiently to any mission or training,” she said. “Ultimately, driver’s training reflects our commitment to professionalism, safety, and excellence in service to our nation.”

Service to our nation includes being prepared for missions here at home as well as forward locations around the globe.

“Regimental drivers training is essential to ensure that all military vehicle operators possess the necessary skills, knowledge, and discipline to operate vehicles safely and effectively in both peacetime and operational environments,” Brunwasser said.

When students are present and classes are in session, RTI personnel focus on training them to standard in a positive, yet demanding atmosphere. During rare breaks between classes, they turn their attention to their own training, administrative requirements and, of course, safety.

“This training reduces the risk of accidents, enhances operational readiness, and ensures compliance with military standards and regulations,” Brunwasser said. “By standardizing driving practices across the regiment, we promote safety, protect personnel and equipment and maintain the regiment’s ability to rapidly sustain operations in any situation.”

Staff Sergeants Julian Lopez, Teresa Sauceda, Thomas Hammer and Fernando Heras are the lead instructors.

Lopez and Sauceda are instructors for the Basic Leader Course. Hammer and Heras are MTOC instructors.

Students are as follows.

Master Sgt. Andrew Flores
Sgt. 1st Class Antonio Bieniek
Staff Sgt. Andy Almaraz-Trujillo
Staff Sgt. Tylure Bazzy
Staff Sgt. Jacob Kirksey
Staff Sgt. Cheyenne Murphy

Bataan Inn

05/25/2026

NMNG helps commemorate Memorial Day

ANGEL FIRE, N.M. – The New Mexico National Guard participated in the annual Memorial Day ceremony today at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial here.

Brig. Gen. Nathaniel Carper, the Deputy Adjutant General and Land Component Commander, represented the NMNG.

Capt. Mike Schmitz, Chief Warrant Officer 4 Jake Wooton, Sgt. Suthin Goloversic and Sgt. Jacob Ramos flew a HH-60M Black Hawk helicopter from the Army Aviation Support Facility in Santa Fe to Angel Fire for a static display. They discussed the helicopter with visitors and allowed them – especially children – to get a look inside.

1st Sgt. Chris Campbell, Staff Sgt. Dwight Goetz, Sgt. Elijah Eggleston, Sgt. Laura Pirard and Sgt. Edmund Strominger of the 44th Army Band based in Albuquerque provided live music for the ceremony.

Members of the NMNG, both Army and Air, attended similar ceremonies around the state.

📷: Douglas Mallary, NMNG Public Affairs Office

05/25/2026

05/25/2026

New Mexico National Guard, Seychelles Defense Forces Formalize State Partnership Program Agreement

by Hank Minitrez, NMNG Public Affairs Director

VICTORIA, Seychelles — The New Mexico National Guard and the Seychelles Defence Forces officially established a new partnership under the National Guard Bureau’s State Partnership Program during a signing ceremony in Seychelles this morning, marking the beginning of a long-term relationship focused on security cooperation, disaster response, professional military development and institutional exchanges.

The agreement links the New Mexico National Guard with the Seychelles Defence Forces through a program designed to foster enduring relationships, strengthen readiness and promote mutual understanding between partner nations.

The partnership will provide opportunities for military-to-military engagements, emergency management collaboration, leadership development and the exchange of best practices.

Leaders from both organizations emphasized the importance of building trust and strengthening capabilities through sustained cooperation.

“This new State Partnership with Seychelles strengthens our shared commitment to regional security, disaster response, and professional military cooperation,” said Maj. Gen. Miguel Aguilar, New Mexico’s adjutant general. “Through this partnership, the New Mexico National Guard will deepen people-to-people ties, exchange expertise, and build lasting capacity that benefits both our nations. We look forward to a relationship grounded in mutual respect, readiness, and shared values.”

During the ceremony, U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Adham Loutfi highlighted the long-term significance of the agreement.

“The officers, engineers and emergency responders from New Mexico and Seychelles who train together today will lead our respective institutions tomorrow,” Loutfi said. “This is an investment in human capital and institutional trust.”

Beyond military cooperation, the partnership is expected to strengthen people-to-people relationships and support shared priorities, including maritime security, disaster preparedness and resilience.

Seychelles is responsible for safeguarding approximately 1.37 million square kilometers of Indian Ocean waters, making cooperation in areas such as emergency response and security particularly valuable.

The State Partnership Program, administered by the National Guard Bureau, connects U.S. states and territories with partner nations around the world to advance security cooperation objectives while building lasting professional and personal relationships.

Through the program, National Guard units share expertise in areas ranging from military readiness and leadership development to emergency management and humanitarian assistance.

New Mexico and Seychelles share common values rooted in service, resilience and community.

Leaders from both organizations expressed optimism that the partnership will create enduring benefits for their forces and citizens while contributing to regional stability and security.

Also representing the New Mexico National Guard at the signing ceremony were Joint Staff Director Brig. Gen. Pia Romero and State Command Sgt. Maj. Chris Poccia, whose presence underscored the Guard’s commitment to building a strong and enduring relationship with the Seychelles Defence Forces across all levels of leadership.

05/23/2026

New Mexico National Guard Job ChalleNGe Academy Celebrates Second Class of Graduates

by Hank Minitrez, NMNG Public Affairs Director

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — The New Mexico National Guard celebrated the graduation of its second class of students from the New Mexico Job ChalleNGe Academy (NMJCA) during a ceremony at the academy's campus on the Albuquerque Expo Center grounds today.

The graduates successfully completed the academy's tuition-free, 20-week residential program, which provides real-world job skills, leadership development and industry-recognized certifications to graduates of the New Mexico Youth ChalleNGe Academy.

Designed to prepare participants for life and career success, the NMJCA combines hands-on training, mentorship and a structured learning environment to help young adults transition into the workforce, higher education, apprenticeships or military service.

The academy provides participants with an opportunity to build a new path forward, demonstrating that setbacks and past mistakes do not have to determine future success.

Brig. Gen. Nathaniel Carper, deputy adjutant general of New Mexico, congratulated the graduates and highlighted the academy's role in providing young adults with the skills and opportunities needed to succeed.

He also recognized the families, cadre members, mentors and supporters whose encouragement, guidance and commitment helped make the graduates' success possible.

Carper noted that while the graduates earned their achievement through hard work and perseverance, they were supported by a team of people who shared a common goal: helping them succeed.

“This graduating class represents the determination, resilience and potential of New Mexico’s next generation,” said Carper. “The journey through Job ChalleNGe Academy is not always easy. Every graduate standing here today faced challenges, overcame obstacles and chose to keep moving forward. They embraced a second chance to redefine their future, and in doing so proved that their past does not define them. Through hard work, discipline and perseverance, they have gained the skills and confidence needed to succeed in the workforce and in life. We are incredibly proud of their accomplishments.”

“What matters most is that you keep moving forward,” said Christina Montoya, president of the New Mexico Military Institute Board of Regents. “Life will present challenges, setbacks and obstacles, but success belongs to those who continue showing up, even when things get difficult. Along the way, take time to celebrate your victories, no matter how small, because each one is proof of your growth. The leadership skills, resilience and life skills you've developed here will help strengthen not only your future, but the communities around you. As you leave this program, choose responsibility over excuses, action over hesitation and service over self-interest. If you do that, there is no limit to what you can accomplish.”

Throughout the 20-week residential program, students were challenged to step outside their comfort zones, develop new skills and discover strengths they may not have known they possessed.

What began as uncertainty for many participants evolved into confidence and leadership.

Cadre and mentors witnessed leadership emerge where there had once been hesitation, as students learned to take responsibility, support one another and overcome adversity.
Carper also emphasized that graduation day reflected the efforts of an entire support network.

Families encouraged students through difficult moments, cadre members challenged them to meet higher standards and mentors helped guide them toward new opportunities.

Together, they created an environment where young adults could overcome adversity, develop leadership skills and realize their potential.

The academy uses the Eight Core Components developed by the National Guard Bureau to help students develop the life skills necessary to become productive and successful members of society.

Throughout the program, participants receive training in employment readiness, professional development, leadership and personal responsibility.

Students learn practical skills such as application completion, resume writing and interview preparation.

They also gain an understanding of workplace benefits, including health insurance, overtime and leave policies, and Occupational Safety and Health Administration regulations.

Additional instruction focuses on social capital, community engagement, resiliency, conflict resolution, effective communication, voter registration, Selective Service requirements and healthy living practices.

The program also educates participants on navigating healthcare systems, obtaining routine health screenings, making sound nutritional choices and understanding the impacts of substance abuse.

These lessons are designed to help graduates build successful careers while maintaining healthy and productive lifestyles.

The graduation marks another significant milestone for the New Mexico Job ChalleNGe Academy as it continues to expand opportunities for young adults across the state and support New Mexico's workforce development efforts.

"The Job ChalleNGe Academy is about more than employment," Carper said. "It's about developing confident, capable young adults who are prepared to contribute to their communities, support their families and pursue meaningful careers. The skills they have learned here will serve them for the rest of their lives."

As these 14 graduates take the next step in their journeys, they leave the Job ChalleNGe Academy equipped with new skills, greater confidence and a stronger foundation for success.

Their stories are a testament to the power of perseverance, second chances and personal growth.

Their accomplishment also reflects the dedication of the families, cadre and mentors who stood beside them throughout the program and believed in their ability to succeed.

The New Mexico National Guard congratulates Noe Acosta-Loya, Shannon Connors, Robert Easterbrooks, Linnie Ferguson, Angel Granados, Nicholas Ibarra, Luis Loya-Perez, Izaac Martinez, Izahya Moreno, Aleesha Neece, Elissa Ostrye, Nevaeh Prieto, Maribella Sanchez and Yareli Strong on this achievement and wishes them every success in the years ahead.

Their dedication serves as a reminder that while challenges may shape us, they do not define us, and that leadership often emerges when individuals choose to move forward despite uncertainty.

The New Mexico National Guard remains committed to investing in programs that empower young people, strengthen communities and develop the future workforce of New Mexico.

05/22/2026

Marksmanship Advisory Council Region VII Marksmanship Match

Story by Sgt. 1st Class Gregory Smith, 200th Public Affairs Detachment

Photos by Pfc. Christina Gonzales, Sgt. Fernando Montoya and Sgt. 1st Class Gregory Smith, 200th PAD

RATON, N.M. – Guided only by dim flashlights and night-vision devices, competitors sprinted across the multi-gun range at the National Rifle Association’s Whittington Center on a cold, dark night, engaging targets at varying distances as every second counted.

The demanding night-fire event was one of 14 challenges faced by 39 National Guard competitors from Arizona, California, Colorado, Guam, Nevada and New Mexico during the Marksmanship Advisory Council Region VII Marksmanship Match held May 18–22, 2026, in Raton.

Throughout the weeklong competition, teams from across the MAC VII region tested their marksmanship skills using both the M-4 carbine and M-17 pistol in day and night matches. Three events unique to New Mexico: Battle of the Zia, Know Your Limits, and the Conway Cup added an extra layer of challenge to the competition.
The top-performing team earns the opportunity to represent Region VII at the U.S. Army Small Arms Championships during the following fiscal year.

“Events like this strengthen the National Guard as a whole,” said Sgt. Maj. Jeremy Jackson, operations sergeant major for the 93rd Troop Command, New Mexico state marksmanship coordinator and Marksmanship Advisory Council Region VII representative to the National Guard Partnership Center. “Competitors get to come train with other states, see best practices, push themselves past their limits and take skills learned here back to their states and units.”

The MAC VII Regional Marksmanship Competition is designed to provide combat-focused marksmanship sustainment training for Soldiers across the seven MAC regions while reinforcing the perishable shooting skills essential to mobilization readiness and mission success.

According to Jackson, Region VII distinguishes itself from other regions through its heavy emphasis on action or multi-gun matches and the inclusion of night-fire events.

“Competition, just like combat, is the ultimate equalizer,” Jackson said. “People don’t care what you have or how good you think you are when it comes down to fair competition. Just like in combat, everybody is equal.”

To participate in the event, Soldiers within Region VII must place in their state’s TAG Match, held in late March.

This year, the New Mexico Army National Guard team consisted of seven members and one auxiliary member from the California National Guard: Staff Sgt. Travis Brown, 1st Lt. Cameron Carpenter, Staff Sgt. Dominic Vigil, Sgt. Troy Nicko, Staff Sgt. Trevor Pak, Staff Sgt. Alexander Bell, Spc. Trevor Brohard and Sgt. Diamond Tanner.

“This is an amazing opportunity, and I am very blessed to have the opportunity to come here,” said Spc. Trevor Brohard, an infantryman with Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 200th Infantry Regiment, and an alpha team member. “This is my first time shooting at the regional competition, so I’m trying to learn the ropes and learn from all these other competitors who have been here for quite some time.”

As a newcomer to the MAC VII Regional Marksmanship Match, Brohard impressed many of his peers with the precision and skill he demonstrated throughout the competition.

“This is his first time shooting here, and he’s absolutely killing it,” said Staff Sgt. Travis Brown, a military policeman with the 919th Company and alpha team captain. “He’s been outshooting guys who have been competing for five-plus years.”

Brohard credited his success as a first-time competitor to his willingness to learn from those around him while maintaining the proper mindset throughout each event.

“I think all the events were very challenging, but usually the battle is within the mind,” Brohard said. “If you throw a round, you’ve got to fight that mentality of, ‘Well, I’m out of the game.’ It’s like, ‘No, I’ve got to focus on the next shot and the next target.’”

Brown and Brohard both said participating in the match not only helped sharpen their marksmanship skills but also motivated them to bring lessons learned back to their units to improve training.

“This competition allows you to do more outside-the-box training and really focus on moving, shooting and the fundamentals in a combat role,” Brohard said. “It also allows me to set the example for marksmanship and bring that example back to my unit while sharing the skills I learned from some of the best shooters in the region and across the nation.”

Soldiers interested in participating in next year’s TAG (The Adjutant General) Match should speak with their unit readiness noncommissioned officer (NCO) for additional information on preparation and eligibility.