Brockport Mayor Josephine Matela, Admiral John Comins, Commandor Wayne Sorrentino and Captain Bruce Speller participate in the Naval Guard Change of Command on September 29.

The New York Naval Militia had its Change of Command Ceremony on September 29 at the Navy Club, in Brockport. Soon after, new Commander Bruce Speller had the responsibility of sending 67 Naval Militia members from the area to Ground Zero in New York City to perform duties as perimeter guard in relief of fellow Naval Militia members currently on site. They will remain there for two weeks. More recalls are expected.

Participants in the Change of Command ceremony included Commander Wayne Sorrentino, Rear Admiral John R. Comins, Captain Bruce Speller, Chaplain Ron Ayrault, Jon Lefferts, Dan Sell and Brockport Mayor Josephine Matela.

The New York Naval Militia is the Naval Component of the New York State Military Forces (DMNA), the other components being the New York Army National Guard, the Air National Guard, and the New York Guard. Today, the New York Naval Militia is the only active, federally recognized Naval Militia with continuous, unbroken service to the country and the state. All drilling Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard members are eligible to join. Interested reservists can contact Master Chief Reese at the Navy Club or call him at 638-6524.