174th Attack Wing Nominated for Prestigious Aerospace Award

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Dylan McCrink
  • 174th Attack Wing
HANCOCK FIELD AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, NY --  

The 174th Attack Wing, New York Air National Guard, has been nominated for the Civil Air Patrol’s (CAP) Frank G. Brewer Memorial Aerospace Award in the organization category, recognizing more than three decades of partnership with the New York Wing.

The award honors organizations that demonstrate exceptional contributions to aerospace education and development, highlighting the wing’s commitment to community engagement and mission support.

The wing’s partnership with Civil Air Patrol enables operations across emergency services, cadet programs and aerospace education. By providing access to facilities, resources and operational expertise, the 174th enhances CAP’s ability to serve communities across New York and the Northeast.

“In collaboration with the 174th Attack Wing, we are able to enhance our operational capabilities and strengthen our community connections,” said Col. Tom Carello, former New York Wing commander, Civil Air Patrol. “This nomination is a testament to the vital role the 174th plays in supporting our mission as part of the Civil Air Patrol.”

The 174th Attack Wing hosts the New York Wing headquarters at Hancock Field Air National Guard Base and provides classroom space, aircraft parking and a dedicated hangar for CAP operations, ensuring consistent readiness despite Central New York’s challenging weather conditions.

The partnership also enables large-scale training events. The wing has supported encampments for more than 200 cadets and senior members, contributing more than 1,600 man hours annually alongside significant logistical and infrastructure support to create a realistic training environment.

Support from the 174th has allowed CAP to host the Northeast Region Emergency Services Academy and a National Flight Academy, while accommodating up to 14 aircraft during peak operations. The wing also supports operational missions including MQ-9 escort operations, radar and data link testing and close air support training, strengthening integration between Air National Guard units and CAP.

Airmen from the 174th Communications Squadron also assisted in developing advanced radio capabilities at CAP’s headquarters, creating a long-range communications system recognized throughout the organization.

Col. John Meili, deputy wing commander, 174th Attack Wing, accepted the nomination on behalf of the wing during a recent ceremony.

“The Civil Air Patrol is a true force multiplier for the 174th Attack Wing, strengthening our mission and empowering the next generation to lead with purpose,” said Meili. “This partnership showcases our shared commitment to developing citizens ready to serve their communities and the nation.”

The recognition reflects the lasting impact of the partnership and its role in enhancing mission readiness and supporting the development of future Airmen and leaders.