Delaware National Guard

10/22/2026

Over the October Drill Weekend, the 1049th Transportation Company recognized two Soldiers for exceptional valor and professional achievement:

Delaware Distinguished Service Cross
Staff Sgt. Krystal Rivera Cruz was awarded the Delaware Distinguished Service Cross on Oct. 17, 2026. On May 11, 2025, while serving in her civilian capacity as a Seaford Police Department officer, Rivera Cruz responded to an active structure fire, climbed onto the roof, and helped lower an unconscious victim to emergency personnel below. Her decisive actions reflect the highest traditions of both law enforcement and the Delaware Army National Guard.

2026 Soldier of the Year
Spc. Nicholas Timmons was formally recognized on Oct. 18, 2026, as the 1049th Transportation Company’s 2026 Soldier of the Year, presented by Command Sgt. Maj. Michael Fields and Command Sgt. Maj. Joseph Leighton. Demonstrating outstanding physical fitness, technical competence, and tactical proficiency throughout the competition. Timmons looks forward to honing his skills over the next year and is eager to compete in the regional competition.

Join us in congratulating both of these outstanding Citizen-Soldiers on their achievements!

Photos courtesy of Staff Sgt. Watson, 1049th Transportation Company

10/20/2026

Alongside their family, Delaware Army National Guard Command Sgt. Maj. Douglas Neal assumed responsibility of the 198th Expeditionary Signal Battalion - Enhanced (ESB-E) from Command Sgt. Maj. Eric Nutto during a change of responsibility ceremony Oct. 17, 2026, at 1401 Newport Gap Pike, Wilmington, Delaware.

Nutto, who was recognized for his dedicated service to the battalion and presented with the Meritorious Service Medal and a gift from the 198th ESB-E.

Photo album here: https://www.flickr.com/photos/delawarenationalguard/albums/72177720336209910/

10/20/2026

Help us congratulate Delaware Army National Guard Sgt. Maj. Beauchamp on his promotion to his current rank. The 198th Expeditionary Signal Battalion - Enhanced Headquarters and Headquarters Company celebrated the occasion on Oct. 17, 2026, with Maj. Mears presiding and Capt. Idler served as master of ceremonies.

Beauchamp was joined by his father, mother, brother, and former band members. He will serve as the 198th ESB-E S-3 sergeant major and acting first sergeant of HHC.

Photo album here: https://www.flickr.com/photos/delawarenationalguard/albums/72177720336210533

10/18/2026

Organizers forgot to block off sidewalk for a very important swearing in, oath of enlistment ceremony at the Delaware National Guard. A man rode his bicycle right through the middle of the ceremony and was immediately chased down. His whereabouts are currently unknown…

10/18/2026

Congratulations to Brig. Gen. Michael J. Jochen, Director of the Joint Staff for the Delaware National Guard, on his promotion to brigadier general Oct. 17, 2026 at Joint Force Headquarters, New Castle, Del.

Jochen’s military journey began in 1986, when he was a high school student drumming with the 287th Army Band before departing for basic training. Since then, his career reflects a remarkable commitment to serving his state and nation.

Jochen served 16 years as an enlisted Soldier before commissioning as a Signal Officer in 2002. Throughout his career, he has served alongside countless Soldiers and leaders, holding positions at the company, battalion and brigade levels, including command of the 198th Expeditionary Signal Battalion and the 261st Theater Tactical Signal Brigade. While commanding the 198th, he deployed to Kuwait in support of Operations Inherent Resolve, Resolute Support and Spartan Shield.

What began as a high school experience has grown into a distinguish career. Jochen’s journey represents 40 years of service, leadership and dedication to the Delaware National Guard.

Please join us in congratulating Brig. Gen. Jochen on this milestone and recognizing his continued commitment to our Soldiers, Airmen, state and nation.

For additional photos visit the DNG flickr page: https://www.flickr.com/gp/delawarenationalguard/NW5r1bga63
(U.S. Army National Guard photos by Sgt. Bryanna Bailey and Spc. Kameron Spencer)

10/17/2026

** THIS EVENT IS EXCLUSIVE TO MILITARY FAMILIES ONLY **

🚁 WHO NEEDS A TRUNK WHEN YOU HAVE TACTICAL VEHICLES?! 🚒

Not your average trunk or treat! We’re taking Trunk or Treat to a WHOLE NEW LEVEL!

Decorated trunks from our DNG staff vehicles and sections, along with a military helicopter, bus, firetruck, security forces vehicle, stake body, and an Army tactical vehicle — all ready to bring the fun and treats!

📅 EVENT DETAILS

Thursday, October 22, 2026
5:30–7:00 PM (1730–1900)

DE National Guard Joint Support Services Center (JSSC)
12 Penns Way, New Castle, DE 19720

🎃 Costume contest
🚗 Battle of the Trunks
📸 Photo opportunities
🍭 Trunk-or-Treat fun for kids of all ages!
🌭 Enjoy hot dogs, popcorn, s’mores, and hot chocolate!

Register your family today using the QR code on the flyer, or link below:
https://www.signupgenius.com/go/409094DA8AA29A3FF2-66139304-battle

Questions? Call the J9 Child & Youth Services office at 302.943.0752

We can’t wait to see our DNG families! 💜🎃👻

** THIS EVENT IS FOR MILITARY FAMILIES **** Come join us for a frightfully fun night of tricks and treats! THURSDAY, OCT 22, 2026 1730-1900 HOURS LOCATION: DE NG Joint Support Services Center, 12 Penns Way, New Castle, Delaware 19720 Put on your Halloween Costume, grab your buckets, and join us for....

10/16/2026

💰🇺🇸 MISSION: MONEY WORKSHOPS — Make Your Money Work for YOU! 🇺🇸💰

Want to boost your financial knowledge and make smarter money moves?

Join the Delaware National Guard J9 for FREE Money Workshops led by our Personal Financial Counselor, Ms. Tamiko Leake!

🌱 OCTOBER 21 | Vesting in Your TSP
Learn about retirement planning, the Blended Retirement System (BRS), TSP vesting, and managing your Thrift Savings Plan.

💵 NOVEMBER 18 | Understanding Your Military Pay
Learn how to read your LES, understand military pay and allowances, explore benefits and tax considerations, and resolve common pay issues.

📅 Two convenient options for BOTH workshops:
📍 1130 hours: JSSC, 12 Penns Way, New Castle (lunch provided!)
💻 1900 hours: Virtual via Microsoft Teams (link provided after registration)

👥 Open to Delaware National Guard Service Members and Spouses!

🔗 REGISTER HERE:
https://www.signupgenius.com/go/409094DA8AA29A3FF2-66560112-mission

📞 Questions? Contact:
Tamiko Leake, AFC®, CTR
Personal Financial Counselor
302.505.4650
📧 [email protected]

10/16/2026

Your TSP can be an important part of your retirement future. Are you making the most of it? 👀

Your TSP isn't just another account to set and forget. It can be an important part of your overall retirement strategy, and you have a role in managing it.

Do you know what you're contributing, how your TSP fits into your retirement, and what choices you can make along the way?

▶️ Watch the video to get the TSP basics and start taking a more active role in your retirement future. https://ow.ly/G1Hw50ZU6OG

Know your options. Make informed choices. Build your future.




Thrift Savings Plan

10/14/2026

The Delaware Department of Labor invites you to a multi-employer Veteran and Community Job Fair!
🗓️ Date: Wednesday, October 21, 2026
⏰ Time: 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm
📌 Location: Route 9 Library, 3022 New Castle Ave., New Castle, DE 19720

10/08/2026