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February 5, 2025 |  | Ready To Serve ★ Proud To Have Served |
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CW5 Jeffrey T. Angle was installed as the New Jersey Army National Guard’s ninth State Command Chief Warrant Officer during a change of responsibility ceremony on January 7, 2023. |
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"Strength in Knowledge" | CW5 Jeffrey T. Angle |
My time as the Command Chief Warrant Officer for the New Jersey Army National Guard has come to an end, and I would like to thank everyone who has helped and supported me throughout my career. Keeping the cohort strong and prosperous is truly a team effort, and I am honored to have had the opportunity to serve these past 42 years.
I joined the NJARNG in 1982 at the age of 17, and made Sergeant, E-5, in 1987 and Warrant Officer 1, WO1, in 1990. Throughout my career as a warrant officer, I have had the opportunity to fly helicopters and airplanes, command an Army aviation support facility, serve at the National Guard Bureau, deploy in support of Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom, and serve as the CCWO for the State of New Jersey.
If you are reading this and think that maybe you or someone you know would like to become a warrant officer, do not hesitate! It will be one of the best decisions of your military career.
The Army warrant officer is a technical expert, combat leader, trainer and advisor. Warrant officers are innovative integrators of emerging technologies, dynamic teachers, confident warfighters and developers of specialized teams of Soldiers. In the NJARNG, warrant officers serve in the fields of military intelligence, band, air defense, aviation including rotary and fixed wing pilots, chemical, cyber, engineer, field artillery, judge advocate, ordinance, quarter master, signal corps and transportation.
Warrant officers deploy to support a wide range of Army missions. In fact, we have had several dozen deployed to the Middle East and domestically last year, and I thank you, and all of our New Jersey communities, for the support of their families and their well-being. I hope my career serves as an example of the opportunity that exists in our New Jersey National Guard.
After my first six-year enlistment was complete, I had considered leaving the military. However, that was just about that time when our unit got new AH-1 Attack Helicopters. With hard work and open eyes, the opportunities kept coming. I was able to go to maintenance school for the new aircraft. I was distinguished honor graduate of my class and was offered full time employment. I became aware of opportunities like flight school. So many opportunities came knocking, I have been trying to give back through my service ever since.
The camaraderie and bonds one can form as a warrant officer across a unit and over the years are incredible and life-long. I know as I close this chapter of my journey, I will still have my Guard family and my warrant officer family. I thank these Soldiers for all they continue to do to support our state and nation. I know I stand with Veterans communities, who number in the millions, Army-strong. |
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| As always, thank you for staying connected to DMAVA.
We invite you to share ideas, events and feedback. Please email our team at outreach@dmava.nj.gov.
Chief Warrant Officer 5 Jeffrey T. Angle
State Command Chief Warrant Officer |
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DMAVA Calendar |
DMAVA is sponsoring or will participate in the events below. A DMAVA Veterans Service Officer will be present at many of these events. Please check details to confirm. | |
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We add new events to our calendar on a daily basis so please bookmark and check back often. |
| View Full Calendar |
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 | The End of Segregation in NJ
Letter from Kenneth C. Royall, Secretary of the Army, sent to New Jersey Governor Alfred E. Driscoll on February 7, 1948, authorizing racially mixed units in the New Jersey Army National Guard. This made the New Jersey National Guard the first federally recognized military component to be integrated. |
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 | NJANG Assumption of Command
U.S. Air Force Colonel Derek Routt assumed command of the New Jersey Air National Guard at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst on February 1, 2025. Colonel Routt previously served as the chief of staff for the NJANG and the 177th Fighter Wing commander.
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Send Off Ceremony for Jersey Devils U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Yvonne Mays, the Adjutant General of New Jersey, speaks during a Reserve Component Period Mobilization Ceremony at the 177th Fighter Wing Air National Guard Base, Egg Harbor Township, NJ on February 2, 2025.
Airmen from the 177th Fighter Wing are scheduled to mobilize in support of the Air Force reserve component period, a scheduled period of active duty in which Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve members deploy in support of a variety of Air Force missions throughout the world.
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 | 177th Fighter Wing
The New Jersey Air National Guard's 177th Fighter Wing, flying a four-ship F-16C fingertip right formation for the national anthem before the NFC Championship game at Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia, PA, January 26, 2025. |
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 | New Jersey National Guard and Republic of Cyprus National Guard focus on developing NCO capabilities, defense modernization and crisis operation capabilities
Capt. Tyshawn Jenkins | NJANG | January 30, 2025
CYPRUS - The New Jersey National Guard (NJNG) continues strengthening its partnership with the Republic of Cyprus National Guard through the State Partnership Program (SPP), focusing on developing Noncommissioned Officer (NCO) capabilities, defense modernization and crisis operation capabilities.
U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Justin Kelley, 177th Fighter Wing Staff senior enlisted leader, praised the recent engagement as a milestone in enhancing Cypriot military training.
“We delivered tailored content that empowers NCOs to build self-sufficient training programs,” said Kelley. “This was a good trip where we expanded on previous efforts, focusing on training, doctrine, and career enhancement.”
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Join Our Team |
100% Free College Tuition
Bonuses | GI Bill
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Michelle Rangel, Hudson County VSOMichelle Rangel is the DMAVA Veterans Service Officer (VSO) for Hudson County.
If you know anyone in need of assistance regarding Veteran’s benefits, please contact Michelle or one of her colleagues by visiting our website at Veterans Service Offices. |
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 | Get Connected to Resources & Services |
The New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans Affairs has partnered with Unite Us to connect individuals and families to a wide variety of services and resources.
Unite Us is a coordinated care referral network of health and social service providers. Unite Us can connect our New Jersey military and veteran community to resources to obtain benefits, food assistance, housing, education, transportation, behavioral health services, peer support and more. |
| Learn More & Request Assistance |
Veteran Service Providers |
Do you provide services to Veterans? We would like to get you enrolled in this new online referral network, Unite NJ Veterans. This digital platform connects Veterans to the resources around them quickly. Learn more and enroll. |
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NJ Youth ChalleNGe AcademyOn January 26, 2025, members of Class 59 officially became Cadets after their Acclimation Graduation. The first two weeks are what most Cadets would say is the hardest part of the 22-week program.
During the short graduation ceremony, Deputy Director Stephanie D'Alessio and Commandant James Carradine spoke to the Cadets and gave them words of encouragement for the next 20 weeks! |
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 | Veterans get more time to transition to new online login systemVA News | January 31, 2025
WASHINGTON - The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs today announced it will provide Veterans additional time to transition to a new online login system that lets them more quickly and securely access information about their VA health care and benefits.
In July, VA announced a phase out of My HealtheVet and DS Logon sign-in options, in favor of two new options, Login.gov and ID.me, which will help the department offer stronger protections for Veterans, families and caregivers.
With today’s announcement, VA is extending the final deadline by which veterans and beneficiaries can log in to VA.gov, VA mobile applications and other VA online services using their My HealtheVet username and password from Jan. 31, 2025, to March 4, 2025. The deadline to switch from DS Logon to ID.me or Login.gov remains Sept. 30, 2025.
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 | Sergeant George AshbyLast Surviving New Jersey Civil War Veteran
George Ashby was born in Burlington, NJ on January 25, 1844.
In 1864, Ashby, an African-American then living in Crosswicks, enlisted as a private in the 45th United States Colored Infantry, organized at Camp William Penn outside of Philadelphia between June and August of 1864. He served in Virginia during the siege of Petersburg and was present for the Confederate surrender at Appomattox Court House in April 1865.
At the end of hostilities, the 45th, with a large number of other federal troops, was transferred to Texas on occupation duty. While serving with his regiment, Ashby was promoted several times until he reached the rank of first sergeant of Company H.
Sergeant Ashby was mustered out of the service at Philadelphia with the 45th in November 1865 and returned to his life as a New Jersey small farmer. After the war, he married Phoebe Cole of Crosswicks, who predeceased him at their Walker Avenue home in Allentown.
In January 1944, a reporter interviewed the old Veteran, who predicted an allied victory in World War II and stated that if he could, he would “enlist all over again.”
When George Ashby died in Allentown on April 26, 1946, he was the last surviving New Jersey Civil War Veteran. He had 9 children, 16 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren and 7 great-great-grandchildren at the time of his death at the age of 102.
Ashby received a military funeral complete with color guard and firing squad provided by Hamilton Township American Legion Post #31 and was buried in the Allentown A. M. E. church cemetery.
Narrative by Joseph G. Bilby |
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 | Specialist Larissa Prince
Meet SPC Larissa Prince...a mixed martial artist and a musician with the New Jersey Army National Guard's 63rd Army Band.
SPC Prince demonstrates the Warrior Ethos through a steady commitment to physical fitness, especially through her love of Muay Thai.
Whether she's training in the gym or performing with the band, she consistently demonstrates resilience and a dedication to excellence in both her military and athletic pursuits.
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Airman First Class Zoe Lartey I want to leave a legacy at the 108th Wing that shows hard work pays off and it's possible to take care of others while doing your best.
The opportunities I've had here have helped me grow in so many ways, giving me leadership skills, discipline, and a foundation to achieve my goals. |
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Mr. James Carradine
We are thrilled to spotlight Mr. James Carradine, the esteemed Commandant of Cadets for the New Jersey Youth ChalleNGe Academy. His unwavering commitment to the program’s mission and his tireless dedication to the success of the young men and women enrolled in the Academy are truly commendable.
Mr. Carradine’s leadership embodies the heart and soul of the Youth ChalleNGe Academy. His visionary guidance and unwavering commitment inspire those around him to strive for excellence.
Upon his honorable discharge from the United States Marine Corps, Mr. Carradine embarked on his career at the Academy. Over the past 19 years, he has risen through the ranks to achieve the prestigious title of Commandant of Cadets. In this critical role, Mr. Carradine oversees the dedicated staff who work directly with the Cadets each day, ensuring they receive the guidance, structure, and support needed to succeed.
As we celebrate Mr. Carradine’s contributions, we also recognize the profound impact his work has had on the Youth ChalleNGe Academy’s mission. The Academy’s success in transforming lives stands as a testament to his dedication, ensuring a lasting legacy of empowerment and excellence for generations to come. |
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New Jersey Fallen Heroes Memorial | In Honor of all those from New Jersey who gave their lives in the fight against terrorism during Operation Enduring Freedom & Iraqi Freedom.
In humble gratitude, we remember their sacrifice. | Memorial Inscription"But on the battlefield their feet stood fast, and in an instant at the height of their fortune, they passed away from the scene, not of their fear, but of their glory."
~ Pericles |
| NJ Fallen Heroes Memorial |
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140 years ago, “Camp Sea Girt" was established by the purchase of 120 acres from the Sea Girt Land Company on January 5, 1885, and in 1890 with two additional parcels to encompass 168 acres. Total cost of $50,921. |
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February 8, 1862 | The Ninth New Jersey Infantry became the first New Jersey unit engaged in a full scale battle in the Civil War. At Roanoke Island, North Carolina, the regiment charged through a swamp, gaining the nickname “Jersey Muskrats.” The Muskrats lost nine men killed and twenty-five wounded in the fight. Among the dead was Captain Joseph Henry, the first New Jersey officer killed in action in the Civil War. |
February 8, 1840 |
Cornelia Hancock, known as the “Florence Nightingale of America,” was born at Hancock’s Bridge. In 1863, Hancock traveled to Gettysburg in the aftermath of the battle as a volunteer nurse and served through the remainder of the Civil War. After the war she taught freed slaves at Mount Pleasant, South Carolina and served as a pioneering social worker in Philadelphia. Hancock lived a long, fruitful and socially useful life before dying in Atlantic City on December 31, 1927. Her wartime letters were published in book form and are an important Civil War source.
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February 12, 1948 |
Under orders from Governor Alfred E. Driscoll, the New Jersey adjutant general’s office published General Order No. 4, specifying that “no qualified person shall be denied any military rights, nor be discriminated against in exercise of any military rights, nor be segregated in the militia because of religious principles, race, color, ancestry or national origin,” officially desegregating the state’s National Guard, despite opposition from the United States Department of War. New Jersey was the first state to desegregate its National Guard.
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February 14, 1934 |
Charles F. Hopkins, the last surviving New Jersey Civil War Medal of Honor recipient, died in Boonton. Hopkins was awarded the medal for carrying a wounded comrade off the battlefield at Gaines Mill, Virginia in 1862. He was buried in Greenwood Cemetery in Boonton. | February 19, 1945 |
Marine Sergeant John Basilone of Raritan, awarded the Medal of Honor for his heroism on Guadalcanal in 1942, personally destroyed a Japanese strong point on Iwo Jima, using hand grenades and other explosives. Shortly afterward, while guiding a tank out of harm’s way, he was killed in action. Basilone was posthumously awarded the Navy Cross, the Marine Corps’ second highest decoration. He was inducted into the New Jersey Hall of Fame in 2011.
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February 19, 1968 | U.S. Army Staff Sergeant Fred Zabitosky of Trenton, although wounded himself, rescued a pilot whose helicopter had crashed and who was pinned down under heavy fire on a mission in Laos. He was awarded the Medal of Honor for his heroism.
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February 20, 1864 |
A number of African-American New Jerseyans fought in the ranks of the Eighth United States Colored Infantry regiment at the battle of Olustee, Florida. Jerseymen killed at Olustee included Charles Anin, Jacob Hall, Henry Harris, Levi Scruby, Joseph Thompson, William H. Trimble, George Willett and Benjamin Wooley. Israel Cox of Trenton and John W. Adams of Salem County were badly wounded. Cox died in the hospital and Adams was finally discharged in November, 1865. |
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We Are Hiring!At the New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans Affairs we take our work in support of Veterans, Servicemembers and their families very seriously. Whether supporting our Veterans with nursing care, transitional housing, or assisting them in navigating access to their Veteran benefits, the Department provides valuable services and can offer rewarding career opportunities to members of the public.
We also have opportunities in facilities management and program management. In addition, we have job openings for members of our military to serve in AGR and Federal Technician roles.
Subscribe to DMAVA Jobs Bulletin to stay updated on job openings.
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We hope you enjoy receiving our newsletter and find it both educational and engaging. If you have questions about our department, our programs or your benefits, please visit our website at nj.gov/military to get contact information. |
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Please email us at outreach@dmava.nj.gov with feedback and comments regarding the newsletter. If you would like to contribute with an item of interest to our subscribers, please email us your proposal.
Visit the DMAVA archives to view previous editions of our newsletter. |
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nj.gov/military NJ Department of Military & Veterans Affairs 101 Eggerts Crossing Road
Lawrenceville, NJ 08648
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Disclaimer: The appearance of any non-DMAVA information or hyperlinks does not constitute endorsement of the products or services on the part of the New Jersey Department of Military & Veterans Affairs. |
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