Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara welcomed military leaders and local veterans to the floor of the New York State Assembly Monday as part of Capital Region Military Day, recognized through an official Assembly resolution commending the work of the Capital Region Chamber and its Unified Military Affairs Council (UMAC).

The day honored the vital role that military institutions play across Upstate New York, including Stratton Air National Guard Base, home to the world’s only ski-equipped LC-130 “Skibirds”; the Watervliet Arsenal; the Navy Reserve Center in Glenville; the U.S. Army Recruiting Battalion; and the Sgt. Horace D. Bradt Army Reserve Center, where Assemblyman Santabarbara once served.

Among the honored guests:

• Colonel Steven D. Slosek, Wing Commander, 109th Airlift Wing
• Chief Master Sergeant Richard Felton, 109th Airlift Wing
• From the New York National Guard – Office of the Adjutant General:
  • Chief State Warrant Officer Bill Solmo, New York Command Chief Warrant Officer
• From the New York Army National Guard:
  • Lieutenant Colonel John A. Harder, Commander, Recruiting & Retention Battalion
  • Staff Sergeant Jake A. Sims
  • Staff Sergeant Katelyn Evans
  • Specialist Jameson D. Spencer
• From the U.S. Army Albany Recruiting Company:
  • Lieutenant Boyd Blackwood, Executive Officer
• Representing UMAC and local veteran support organizations:
  • Mr. Tom O’Connor, Capital Region Chamber
  • Mr. Steve McCutcheon, Schenectady County Veterans Service Agency

“These individuals serve with distinction and lead with purpose,” said Assemblyman Santabarbara. “Their work not only protects our freedoms—it strengthens our communities and inspires the next generation of leaders. We are proud to honor them here today in the People’s House.”