Recognizing Rockland

Major General Ray Shields, the Adjutant General for the State of New York, announces the promotion of members of the New York Army National Guard in recognition of their capability for additional responsibility and leadership.

Joshua Kelly of New City, N.Y., and assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 204th Engineer Battalion, received a promotion November 21, 2025 to the rank of private 1st class.

Derick Mendoza of Pomona, N.Y., and assigned to 1156th Engineer Company, received a promotion November 5, 2025 to the rank of specialist.

Wilbatchevsky Milius of Spring Valley, N.Y., and assigned to 1569th Transportation Company, received a promotion November 29, 2025 to the rank of specialist.

Allenroy Palomino Pomatana of Haverstraw, N.Y., and assigned to Bravo Company, 2nd Battalion, 108th Infantry Regiment, received a promotion November 24, 2025 to the rank of specialist.

Army National Guard promotions are based on a Soldier’s overall performance, demonstrated leadership abilities, professionalism and future development potential.

These promotions recognize the best qualified Soldiers for a career in the New York Army National Guard.

Army National Guard Citizen Soldiers who serve our state and nation are eligible for monthly pay, educational benefits (from the state and federal government), travel across the globe, technical and leadership training, health and dental insurance and contributions towards retirement programs similar to a 401(k).

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Jonathan Troia of New City, N.Y., and Nikko Rivera of Nyack, N.Y. were named to the Fall 2025 Dean’s List at Belmont University in Nashville, Tennessee.

“This achievement demonstrates what is possible when students pursue their goals in an ambitious, supportive community committed to the flourishing of all. It speaks to the dedication of our students, the mentorship of our faculty and a shared commitment to wisdom,” said Dr. David Gregory, provost and executive vice president for academic excellence.

Dean’s List eligibility is based on a minimum course load of 12 hours and a quality grade point average of 3.5 with no grade below a C.