Veteran Distinction on NY State Drivers Licenses Available Now

by WebAdmin Military News New York Veterans

NYS DMV Photo Document “Veteran” Status Designation

If you are a qualified U.S. military veteran, who was honorably discharged, and you have a NYS driver license, learner permit or non-driver photo ID card, you can have the word “Veteran” printed on the upper left hand of your photo document.

There is no additional fee for the veteran status designation on your document, but all regular transaction fees will apply.

To apply for the veteran status designation:

  • You must send or provide proof of an honorable discharge. If you apply by mail, send a photocopy of the proof(s). If you apply at a DMV office, you must show the original proof(s), which will be returned to you. Acceptable proofs are:
    • a U.S. Department of Defense Form DD-214 that indicates an honorable discharge, or
    • a form DD-215 that indicates an honorable discharge, or
    • an Honorable Discharge form WD AGO 53, WD AGO 55, WD AGO 53-55, NAVPERS 553, NAVMC 78PD or NAVCG 553, or
    • an “Enlisted Separation Paper.”
  • You can apply for the veteran status designation when you renew your driver license by mail using your renewal notice (MV-2) and a photocopy of your proof of honorable discharge.
  • You can apply at a DMV office for a renewal or a replacement document with the veteran status designation. Use the Application for Driver License or Non-Driver ID form MV-44.
  • You cannot apply by phone or online.
  • The veteran status will be printed on all of your future NYS DMV photo documents.

Historical perspective on Fort Gadsden, Apalachicola National Forest

by WebAdmin History New York VCA

Historic Fort Gadsden, on the Apalachicola National Forest in Florida, was the site of a horrific battle and explosion during the War of 1812 with England. The fort was built on a strategic portion of the Apalachicola River to control river and trade traffic. In the face of an imminent attack by American forces, escaped and freed slaves and many local American Indians sought refuge and safety at the fort. As the VCA fought in the War of 1812, we thought we would share a little piece of history brought to you by the USDA Forest Service.

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kJl45IXOOZg&feature=player_profilepage]

Nathan Hale Day

by vcasny American Revolution Artillery History Military News New York Patriots VCA Veteran
Nathan Hale
Nathan Hale Statue

On 22 September, 1776 British troops under the command of General William Howe (British Commander in North America) hung Nathan Hale a day after he was caught spying for the Continental Army. Every year a small ceremony is held to remember the man who reportedly said, “I only regret that I have but one life to lose for my country”. The ceremony takes place at City Hall Park, the location where he lost his life 235 years ago. Attending the ceremony were city officials, including Mayor Bloomberg.

Mayor and Color Guard
Mayor Bloomberg and VCA Color Guard - Nathan Hale Day 2011

Former Chairman Myers Recalls 9/11 Pentagon Attack

by vcasny History Military News New York

Air Force General Richard B. Myers was preparing for his Senate confirmation hearing, and Afghanistan was no where on his mind. Then everything changed as American Airlines Flight 77 was hijacked by al-Queda terrorists. At 9:37 EDT, Flight 77 hit the Western side of the Pentagon. General Myers recalls the events. Read the story on this link:  Former Chairman Myers Recalls 9/11 Pentagon Attack.

Preparing the Firing Battery

by vcasny American Revolution Artillery History Military News Military Photos New York VCA

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eTr9Ztxypj8]

Getting ready for the big July 4th event takes coordination, patience and lots of caution.  Our thanks once again to the 1st Battalion, 258th Field Artillery for always been willing to provide a hand, and  helping us with the movements of the howitzers. Here is a short video from early morning until the firing.  Check out the Cubs Scouts at the end of the line 🙂

Still Vigilant at the Tomb of the Unknowns Despite Irene – ABC News

by vcasny History Military News Military Photos New York

New York went through a category 3 (well almost) hurricane this past weekend. Subway’s and other public transportation were shutdown, Broadway shows did NOT go on, and flooding occurred in certain areas; however, over at Arlington National Cemetery, the Old Guard performed their duty as they do everyday. Go to this link Still Vigilant for the full story.

The Veteran Corps of Artillery Plaque at 115 Broadway, New York, NY

by vcasny American Revolution Artillery History Military News New York Patriots Press Release VCA Veteran

The late 18th century City Arms Tavern stood on this site. On November 25th, 1790, known as “Evacuation Day” because it marked the anniversary of the departure of the last British troops from New York in 1783, a group of patriotic citizens met at the Tavern to discuss the defense of their state and nation from possible foreign aggression. As veterans of the corps of artillery of the Continental Army, they formed the VETERAN CORPS OF ARTILLERY OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK. Since that date this historic military command has served the state and nation continuously, in both peace and war.

More VCA July 4th celebration on youtube

by vcasny Artillery History Military News Military Photos New York Patriots Press Release VCA Veteran

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DA8RhmzB_v0]Every year, The Veteran Corp of Artillery of the State of New York, holds its’ Annual Salute to the Nation in Battery Park, NYC. The event begins with a march from Castle Clinton and a flag raising ceremony. The highlight of the event for spectators and tourists is the 50 gun salute, with each firing volley executing after each state is named. Be with us next year for the 4th. The VCA is a federally and state recognized military organization founded in 1790.

VCA in the news – State Veteran Corps Of Artillery Holds July 4th Demonstration – NY1.com

by vcasny Artillery History Military News New York VCA Veteran

The VCA held it’s “Annual Salute to the Nation” this July 4th, and Battery Park was filled with spectators from all over the world. They were not disappointed as the crowds watched a Change of Command ceremony, the Raising of the Colors, and of course the 50 gun salute with our 75mm Howitzers. A special thanks go to the Soldiers of the 258th Field Artillery based out of the Jamaica Armory in Queens, NY.

The 258th provided transportation and additional troops for the movement of the howitzers.

Here is short piece and video from New York’s own NY1 news channel.

State Veteran Corps Of Artillery Holds July 4th Demonstration – NY1.com.