

Commanding Officer
COL Michael Pensa
ABOUT THE 11th NEW YORK REGIMENT USV-A

The 11th New York Regiment, United States Volunteers-America (USV-A) was founded in December 2005 as the 2nd New York Brigade, created to assist the U.S. Military in rendering Military Funeral Honors and to train its members in homeland security. Its original area of responsibility was New York City and Long Island, where members quickly established themselves, as a reliable and disciplined support to military and veteran communities.
Early meetings were held at the Cradle of Aviation Museum in Garden City, and in 2006 the unit began formal training and drills at the U.S. Army Reserve Center in Farmingdale under the guidance of the 306th Engineer Company. By 2007, members had completed ceremonial weapons training with the New York Army National Guard at the Kingsbridge Armory, earning certification to provide firing parties in support of honor Guard missions. That same year, the Brigade was predesignated as the 11th New York Regiment, a title chosen to honor New York as the eleventh state to join the Union.
Over the years, the Regiment has shown steadily in both membership and mission. Training and monthly drills are now held at Long Island National Cemetery, where members refine ceremonial skills and maintain the traditions of military service. The unit has earned recognition and trust from Veterans Service Organizations, government agencies, and funeral directors, and is regularly called upon to provide firing parties, Color Guards, and ceremonial support at metropolitan region.
By 2019, the 11th New York Regiment had completed more than 1,100 missions, ensuring that local veterans received the full measure of respect and honor they deserved. Today, the Regiment continues to grow in strength and purpose, with members committed to carrying forward the values of honor, duty, and remembrance. Whether rendering final honors at a graveside service or presenting the nation’s colors at a community ceremony, the 11th New York Regiment stands as a proud and dedicated guardian of military tradition.
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Join us in our mission. To learn more about our history, our services or how to become part of the Regiment, explore our site and discover how you can help us honor America’s veterans.



