"The room will be expanded to accommodate the high volume of military personnel now using the facility," said Doug Myers, airport spokesman.
"The cost of the labor and materials to be used in the expansion of the Military Courtesy Room expansion is being donated by BBL Construction Services and their sub contractors," said David E. Langdon, chairman of the Albany County Airport Authority. "Donald Led Duke, the late chairman of BBL had a strong commitment to the nation's military and his legacy will live on within the Military Courtesy Room.
The John J. McKenna IV Military Courtesy Room is located on the third floor of the Airport's terminal. The room is staffed by more than 140 volunteers and offers light refreshments, snacks and a welcoming atmosphere to all military personnel and their families. The room is equipped with cable TV, DVD, video games and both phone and e-mail service.
"We were immediately impressed by what a tremendous service and comfort that the Courtesy Room and its volunteers are able to provide in such a limited space," said BBL's Vice President Jonathan deForest. "We knew we could do our part to make it even better. We all need to ensure that the men and women serving our country know how much we appreciate the sacrifices they make each day."
Douglas Berinstein of Clifton Park, was promoted to first lieutenant while serving with the Army National Guard's 206th Military Police Company.
Mark Tremblay of Troy, was promoted to first sergeant of Company A, 42nd Special Troops Battalion.
Thomas Akin of Wynantskill, and Jose Mercado of Schenectady, advanced to master sergeant while on duty with the Joint Force Headquarters.
Anthony Buchanan of Melrose and Matthew Sagendorf of Hoosick Falls, advanced to staff sergeant while assigned to 2nd Battalion, 108th.
Kenneth Falzarano of Schenectady was promoted to staff sergeant while serving with the Joint Force Headquarters.
Donald Leinfelder of Wynantskill, was promoted to staff sergeant while serving with 3rd Battalion, 142nd Aviation.
Joshua Stickle of Rensselaer, advanced to staff sergeant while on duty with 42nd Infantry Division.
Sergeant: Michael Boulerice of Ballston Lake, 466th Medical Company, Area Support; Anthony Bruno of Albany, Headquarters, 42nd Infantry Division; David Murray of Ballston Lake, 3rd Battalion, 142nd Aviation; Tameka Powell of Watervliet, Joint Force Headquarters; and Michael Walker of Albany, 42nd Special Troops Battalion.
Specialist: Kristi Bennett of Petersburgh, Headquarters, 42nd Infantry Division; Patrick Decker of Troy, 727th Military Police Detachment, Law And Order; Holden Davenport of Sharon Springs, 42nd Combat Aviation Brigade; Timothy Deyo of Ballston Spa, 2nd Battalion, 108th Infantry; Brandan Flansburg of Duanesburg, 2nd Battalion, 108th Infantry; Alexander Madeo of Glenmont, 2nd Battalion, 108th Infantry; and Matthew Whalen of Troy, 42nd Combat Aviation Brigade.
Air Force Airman Sarah Pennella of Glenville graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio.
Army National Guard Pvt. Jamie Spaulding of Ballston Spa has graduated from basic combat training at Fort Jackson, Columbia, S.C.
Army Pfc. Justin Davis of Loudonville has graduated from Basic Combat Training at Fort Sill, Lawton, Okla.
News of your soldiers and units can be sent to Duty Calls, Terry Brown, Times Union, Box 15000, Albany, NY 12212 or by e-mail at brownt@timesunion.com.