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DMA Military Newsletter | April 29, 2026 |
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| Ready to serve ★ military.nj.gov |
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 | DMA leadership testified before the New Jersey Senate and Assembly Budget Committees. |
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Legislative Partnerships |
On April 21st and 22nd, I had the opportunity to testify before the New Jersey Senate and Assembly Budget Committees to discuss our department’s proposed budget for Fiscal Year 2027.
These hearings reflect an important truth: the work of the Department of Military Affairs is strengthened by strong legislative partnerships. Our ability to support service members and their families depends on close collaboration with the elected leaders who help shape the resources and policies that guide our mission. I remain grateful for the New Jersey Legislature’s commitment to our department and for the constructive discussions that continue to move our priorities forward.
This year’s proposed budget supports the core mission of the Department of Military Affairs and ensures that the New Jersey National Guard remains ready to serve the state and the nation. The budget also includes a critical investment in the infrastructure that sustains our force.
Specifically, the Fiscal Year 2027 proposal includes one million dollars to support essential maintenance at our state armories.
Armories are the foundation of our readiness. Their formal designation as “readiness centers” reflects the vital role they play in training, mobilization, and equipment maintenance. With an average age of seventy‑three years, many of our armories require targeted and responsible investment to remain safe, functional, and mission capable.
The funding included in this year’s proposed budget allows the Department to address high‑priority maintenance needs, upgrade mission support infrastructure, and ensure that our Soldiers and Airmen have the facilities required to train, prepare, and mobilize effectively.
These investments, and the partnerships that make them possible, help ensure we remain ready today and prepared for the challenges of tomorrow. |
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As always, thank you for staying connected to DMA.
We invite you to share ideas, events and feedback. Please email our team at outreach@dma.nj.gov.
Brigadier General Yvonne L. Mays
Adjutant General & Commissioner |
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 | Brigadier General Yvonne L. MaysThe Adjutant General of New Jersey
and
Commissioner, New Jersey Department of Military Affairs
cordially invites you to attend the
Memorial Day Ceremony
Thursday, May 21, 2026
11:00am at the
New Jersey Department of Military Affairs
Lawrenceville Campus
101 Eggerts Crossing Road
Lawrenceville, NJ 08648
Military: Uniform of the Day
Civilian: Business Casual |
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Governor Mikie Sherrill
requests the honor of your presence at the
State of New Jersey Memorial Day Observance
on Saturday, the twenty-third of May at eleven o'clock
Brigadier General William C. Doyle Veterans Memorial Cemetery
350 Province Line Road, Wrightstown, NJ
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Community Calendar | New events are added to the calendar on a daily basis so please bookmark and check back often. |
| View Full Calendar |
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Brig. Gen. (Ret.) Robert S. Dutko, Sr.Brigadier General Robert S. Dutko, Sr., a lifelong resident of Trenton, NJ, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, on April 12, 2026, at the age of 90.
General Dutko leaves behind an enduring legacy following 42 years of distinguished service with the New Jersey Air National Guard. His monumental contributions were recently commemorated on September 14, 2024, with the dedication of the Mission Generation Complex in his honor at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, NJ.
The family will hold services to honor his memory. Obituary information can be found at Murphy Funeral Home. |
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 | Republic of Albania
Brig. Gen. Mays met with Ervin Bushati, Ambassador of the Republic of Albania to the United States of America, on April 14, 2026.
During the meeting, General Mays and Ambassador Bushati discussed the NJ National Guard’s longstanding partnership with Albania through the National Guard Bureau’s State Partnership Program.
The Ambassador expressed gratitude for General Mays’ dedication to the partnership, from her service in Tirana as Defense Cooperation Officer (2010–2011) to her current role leading the NJ National Guard and NJ Department of Military Affairs. |
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 | 108th Wing Family Day
On April 12, 2026, the NJ Air National Guard's 108th Wing held a family day for friends and family of their deployed Airmen at the Bordentown Armory.
Leadership from the 108th Wing and veteran organizations spoke to family members to ensure they receive information about the resources and benefits they are entitled to.
The event was assisted by the NJ Department of Military Affairs Soldier & Family Readiness Group. View Images |
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 | 1-114th Infantry
Soldiers with 1st Battalion, 114th Infantry Regiment, NJ Army National Guard, conducted a squad training exercise at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, NJ on April 18, 2026.
The 1-114th held a best squad competition over drill weekend to provide an immersive and collaborative training environment to hone both individual soldiers and collective competencies.
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 | 140th & 227th Cyberspace Operations Squadrons
New Jersey Air National Guardsmen engaged students at the Rutgers New Brunswick Career Exploration Day on April 24, 2026.
Both the 140th COS and the 227th COS are seeking eligible applicants for various roles in the cyber domain. For prospective candidates interested in learning more about these high-demand career fields, the New Jersey Air National Guard hosts Virtual Cyberspace Open Houses at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst.
Complete the following form to attend: Cybersecurity Interest Survey. |
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 | CW3 Philip Faustino
Recently, Chief Warrant Officer 3 Philip Faustino conducted his final road march, closing out an outstanding career of over 28 years of dedicated military service.
From leading from the front to setting the standard for others to follow, CW3 Faustino has consistently demonstrated what it means to be a Warrant Officer and a professional Soldier. His impact was demonstrated through mentorship, technical expertise, and unwavering commitment. He has shaped countless Soldiers and strengthened our formations in ways that will last for years to come.
Chief, thank you for your leadership, your service, and the legacy you leave behind. Wishing you nothing but success and fulfillment in your next chapter. |
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MSgt Charles ZingroneDuring a ceremony at the April Unit Training Assembly, U.S. Air Force Master Sergeant Charles Zingrone, 177th Fighter Wing Logistics Readiness Squadron Petroleum, Oils and Lubricants fuels management flight chief, received a Bronze Star Medal for distinguished heroic and meritorious achievement or service in a combat zone, during his deployment to Al Udeid Air Base, Qatar in 2025.
“When you hear the events that transpired during Master Sergeant Zingrone’s deployment, it drives home the gravity of the decoration, and you realize it isn’t just for a job well done,” said Lt. Col. Justin Krowicki, commander of the 177th Fighter Wing Logistics Readiness Squadron. “This is a decoration for decisive action under pressure, where the outcome mattered and this Airman stepped up to the challenge.”
Congratulations and great work, Master Sgt. Zingrone! View Images |
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 | SR Josiah Martinez
Huge congratulations to Seaman Recruit Josiah Martinez who is currently enrolled as a Cadet in the NJ Youth ChalleNGe Academy!
On April 15, 2026, he officially swore into the United States Navy.
This is just the beginning of an incredible journey. We are proud to watch you take this next step in service to our country! |
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Bring Your Child to Work DayThe NJ Department of Military Affairs participated in the "Bring Your Child to Work Day" in Lawrenceville, NJ and other locations around the state on April 23, 2026.
We want to give a special shout-out to the children whose sacrifices and resilience are recognized and applauded every day. You are a vital part of our nation’s Armed Forces family.
The turnout was outstanding, the day was beautiful and the experiences memorable.
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 | NJYCA Class 61 Family Day
The New Jersey Youth ChalleNGe Academy had a family day for Cadets of Class 61 at the National Guard Training Center in Sea Girt, NJ on April 15, 2026.
Family members attended the event, which marked the half way point for the six-month residential program designed to reclaim the lives of at-risk 16 to 18-year-old youths and produce graduates with the values, skills, education, and self-discipline necessary to succeed as adults.
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 | Mark Preston
Director, Fiscal DivisionOn March 19, 2026, Mark Preston was awarded the 2026 Red Cross Lifesaving Award for his response during a medical emergency at Medford VFW Post 7677.
Prior to this incident, Preston had completed Red Cross training in basic First Aid, CPR, and AED. This training enabled him to respond immediately and effectively.
His actions, guided by his commitment to serve, resulted in a life being saved. We honor and commend his professionalism, humility, and dedication. |
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 | Marco Laguna
Director of Legislative Services
DMA’s Director of Legislative Services, Marco Laguna, a U.S. Army veteran, was recognized at Citi Field as the Veteran of the Game during the New York Mets matchup against the Washington Nationals.
Thank you, Marco, for your service to our country and your continued service to New Jersey! |
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 | Kaitlyn Mourer
Confidential AssistantKaitlyn Mourer recently joined DMA as Confidential Assistant to the Assistant Commissioner. Before stepping into this role, she built a successful career as a registered dietitian, working primarily in critical care. After several years in healthcare, she decided to pursue a new challenge and the opportunity to grow beyond the clinical setting.
Mourer comes from a strong military background; both of her grandfathers served, and she has a cousin currently on active duty. Through her connections within the department, she heard many positive things, which piqued her interest in exploring a career with the DMA. Transitioning from healthcare to military affairs was a major career shift, but it is one she takes great pride in it.
In her current role, Mourer provides daily support to the Assistant Commissioner and The Adjutant General, assisting with email correspondence, project coordination, and ensuring tasks seamlessly move along. Providing full support to the department’s mission. She has enjoyed her time settling into the department and is becoming more confident in her decision to transition out of healthcare.
Mourer values growth and new experiences. She is proud of taking the leap into a completely different field of work and bringing her organizational skills and strong work ethic to support the DMA mission. She has no regrets about the change and is excited to continue learning in her role.
Outside of work, Mourer played basketball throughout college and still has maintained close relationships with her former teammates. She looks forward to contributing to the NJDMA team in the months ahead. |
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 | NJ State Police
On April 22, 2026, Lieutenant Gutierrez Spies from the NJ State Police addressed the Cadets at the NJ Youth ChalleNGe Academy.
Lt. Spies not only represented the State Police, but also the Travis Manion Foundation. The foundation is in honor of Veteran Travis Manion who lost his life in service to our country. This foundation, through exceptional individuals like Lt. Spies, teach character education in memory of the fallen. |
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Army ROTCFriday, April 10th, 2026 marks an important milestone as our Seton Hall University ROTC and Rutgers-New Brunswick ROTC conducted their first joint lab to prepare for the integration of our programs.
Cadets trained side-by-side, building skills, demonstrating professionalism, with a shared discipline and commitment to developing future Army leaders. This collaboration reflects our continued dedication to excellence as we move toward becoming one battalion.
New faces, shared standards, same mission.
Image and caption courtesy Seton Hall ROTC. |
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 | Air Force JROTC
Recently, Saint John Vianney Air Force JROTC Det. NJ-20223 took a tour of the 177th Fighter Wing, gaining valuable insights into what Guard life is like.
During the tour, the students received a mission brief from the Deputy Wing Commander, Colonel Aaron Dunn, and spoke to an F-16 fighter pilot, a crew chief, aircrew flight equipment members, and base firefighters.
Many students expressed their ambitions of answering their nation's call to serve their communities and the nation.
Thanks, cadets. It was a pleasure to have you visit! |
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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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Soldiers of the 2nd NJ Volunteer Infantry in Virginia in May 1863. |
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| May 3, 1861 |
New Jersey’s four regiment militia brigade, enlisted for three months’ service, left Trenton for Washington aboard motorized canal boats down the Delaware River. Some militiamen celebrated by firing handguns randomly in the air, and one careless Jersey City man accidentally shot another soldier. The Jerseymen debarked at Annapolis and boarded trains to Washington -- the first full brigade to reach the capital. |
May 3, 1941 | New Jersey National Guardsmen of the Forty-fourth Division, on active duty at Fort Dix since September 1940, held their “biggest ever” review for Navy Secretary Frank M. Knox, guest of the Seventy-eighth Division Veterans Association, holding a reunion at Fort Dix. |
May 7, 1995 | The New Jersey Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial, situated alongside the Garden State Parkway in Holmdel, was dedicated. The memorial, a circular open-air pavilion, is ringed with black granite panels, each representing a day of the year, engraved with the names of New Jerseyans who died on that day during the war. |
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May 10, 1864 |
The first military draft in New Jersey under the Enrollment Act of 1863 took place in Ocean County. Ultimately, only 951 men drafted in New Jersey in 1864 and 1865 actually served in the army. The rest either paid commutation or provided a substitute. | May 12, 1864 |
Born in England, John P. Beech was a Trenton, NJ resident in 1861 when he enlisted in the 4th New Jersey Infantry. Beech was awarded the Medal of Honor for his conduct on May 12, 1864 at Spotsylvania. He ran forward to assist an artillery battery, most of whose men had been killed or wounded. He voluntarily assisted the remaining artillery men, despite being under heavy fire. Beech died in Trenton in 1926. |
May 12, 1864 | Colonel William Penrose’s First New Jersey Brigade, the Second, Third, Fourth and Fifteenth New Jersey regiments and four companies of the Second New Jersey regiment attacked Confederates at the “Bloody Angle” at Spotsylvania, Virginia, suffering heavy casualties.
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 | 227th Air Support Operations Squadron
U.S. Air Force Tactical Air Control Party (TACP) Airmen with the NJ Air National Guard's 227th Air Support Operations Squadron, gave a Special Patrol Infiltration Exfiltration System (SPIES) demonstration at the 2017 Atlantic City Airshow on August 23, 2017.
Two groups of TACP Airmen were flown suspended by a SPIES system by UH-60 Black Hawks from the NJ Army National Guard.
SPIES is used for extracting special operations personnel when an aircraft cannot land. |
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 | We Are Hiring!
At the New Jersey Department of Military Affairs we take our work in support of Servicemembers and their families very seriously. The Department provides valuable services and can offer rewarding career opportunities to members of the public.
In addition, we have job openings for members of our military to serve in AGR and Federal Technician roles.
Subscribe to the MilVets 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, please visit our website at military.nj.gov to get contact information. |
| Contact DMA |
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Please email us at outreach@dma.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. |
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military.nj.gov NJ Department of Military Affairs 101 Eggerts Crossing Road
Lawrenceville, NJ 08648
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Disclaimer: The appearance of any non-DMA information or hyperlinks does not constitute endorsement of the products or services on the part of the NJ Department of Military Affairs. |
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