HQ NYS Guard Camp Smith, New York

• Historic Roots: Camp Smith was established in 1882 and has served as a major training facility for the New York State organized militia, now known as the New York Guard and New York Army National Guard. • Strategic Location: The camp is situated on over 1,900 acres near Peekskill, New York, overlooking the Hudson River, making it a key defensive and training site for the greater New York City area. • Named After a Governor: The facility is named in honor of Alfred E. Smith, a four-term governor of New York and the first Catholic nominee for President of the United States. • WWI and WWII Training Ground: During both World Wars, Camp Smith was a vital mobilization and training site for New York troops preparing for overseas deployment. • Role in 9/11 Response: After the September 11, 2001 attacks, Camp Smith was a key staging area for National Guard forces supporting rescue and recovery operations in New York City. • Home of the NYS Guard: Camp Smith serves as the headquarters for the New York State Guard, an all-volunteer state defense force that supports the New York National Guard during emergencies. • Training for Law Enforcement: The camp is frequently used by various law enforcement agencies, including the New York State Police and local police departments, for tactical training and disaster response drills. • Unique Terrain: Its rugged hills, forests, and proximity to the Hudson River provide diverse environments for infantry, engineering, and survival training. • Annual Events: Camp Smith hosts the annual New York Army National Guard’s Best Warrior Competition, testing soldiers’ physical fitness, marksmanship, and leadership skills. • Historic Structures: Several buildings on the camp date back to the early 20th century, including classic drill halls and administrative buildings, offering a glimpse into the military architecture of their era.