Commack resident ends 41-year Air Force career

New York Air National Guard Chief Master Sgt. Harold L. Rowan retires during Sept. 8 ceremony.

WESTHAMPTON BEACH, New York (09/11/2024) — New York Air National Guard Chief Master Sgt. Harold L. Rowan, a Commack resident, closed a 41-year military career with a retirement ceremony on Sept. 8 at the 106th Rescue Wing firehouse on F.S. Gabreski Air National Guard Base.

Rowan enlisted into the United States Air Force in 1984 as a Law Enforcement Specialist and K-9 handler. He was first assigned to Ramstein Air Base in Germany, where he worked K-9 patrol and was part of the emergency services and hostage negotiation teams.

After leaving active duty, Rowan joined the New York Air National Guard, 106th Rescue Wing, in March 1990. He held various positions, including rescue firefighter, vehicle operator dispatcher, and HC-130 combat search and rescue loadmaster.

Rowan last served as the wing's human resource advisor. In this role, he focused on diversity, inclusion, professional development, and leadership. He aslo facilitated noncommissioned officer induction ceremonies and newcomers briefings.

During the ceremony, Rowan expressed his gratitude to his family, friends, and colleagues for their support over the years.

"Thank you, my family and friends, for supporting me throughout these years," he said. "Thank you to my parents who encouraged me to join the service when I was unsure of what I wanted to do."

Rowan also thanked his partner, JennyRose Corritore, for her support.

"You have attended a lot of events on your own because of drill weekends, deployments, and activations," he said. "You have played a pivotal role in my success as a police officer, military member, and the person I am today."

Lt. Col. Jesse Fritz, the 106th's director of staff, noted that Rowan had dedicated his life to serving the Long Island community, his country, and fellow Americans.

"He exemplifies the servant leadership philosophy, and in his retirement, he is still looking for ways to give back," Fritz said.

During the ceremony, Rowan was presented with the Meritorious Service Medal for Outstanding Service, the Air Force Certificate of Retirement, the Presidential Certificate of Appreciation, and the Certificate of Appreciation from the Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force.

In closing, Rowan reflected on his time at the 106th Rescue Wing.

"As I reflect back over my 30-plus years in law enforcement, and my 40-plus years in the military, I have a lot to be thankful for," he said. "This Wing is a wonderful place to work, and it's because of Airmen like you."

The 106th Rescue Wing, based at Francis S. Gabreski Air National Guard Base in Westhampton Beach, New York, operates and maintains the HC-130J Combat King II search and rescue aircraft, and the HH-60W Jolly Green II search and rescue helicopter. The 106th Rescue Wing is home to a special warfare squadron with pararescuemen and combat rescue officers, specializing in rescue and recovery, and deploys for domestic and overseas operations.

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