Rotterdam resident promoted to master sergeant in New York Army National Guard

Latham, NY (12/22/2025) — Rotterdam resident Michele VanNess received a promotion to the rank of master sergeant in the New York Army National Guard during a ceremony held at New York State Division of Military and Naval Affairs headquarters on December 22, 2025.

She was promoted to her new rank by Lt. Col. Joshua Heimroth, the Director of Military Personnel.

"Michele has had a great career in the National Guard," Heimroth said, "she will continue having great success in her next position."

VanNess, who serves as the state on and off boarding non-commissioned officer at the New York Army National Guard Joint Force Headquarters in Latham, is a veteran of the War in Iraq who has served in the Army National Guard since 2003.

With this promotion to master sergeant, VanNess will move to a new responsibility as the senior military personnel sergeant for the 42nd Expeditionary Combat Aviation Brigade Headquarters, also based in Latham.

VanNess was joined by her husband Brian and her children Ryann and Maddox.

"Promotions in the Army aren't earned alone, they're the result of the people who guide you, support you, and stand beside you," VanNess said. "The friendships I've made throughout my career have meant more than I can ever express, you have all shared your wisdom and pushed me to grow."

"An Army career isn't a solo journey, thank you to my family for every sacrifice, and every bit of support you've given me. Your love keeps me grounded and motivated, I love you," she said.

VanNess has served as a full-time Army National Guard Personnel Services Sergeant since 2010 as part of the Active Guard and Reserve Program.

She has served numerous roles of increasing responsibility in the personnel management career field across the Joint Force Headquarters, with positions related to personnel services and military operations.

She deployed to Iraq in 2006 with the 466 Area Medical Company where she deployed as a patient administrative specialist.

Her awards include the Army Commendation Medal with five oak leaf clusters, Army Reserves Components Achievement Medal, the Army Good Conduct Medal, fifth award, the National Defense Service Medal, Armed Forces Service Medal, Armed Forces Reserve Medal with Mobilization Device, Army Service Ribbon, Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon with numeral four device, Iraq Campaign Medal, Overseas Service Ribbon, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and the driver wheeled and mechanic badge.

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