Two Cheektowaga brothers enlisted in New York Air National Guard's 107th Attack Wing
James and Jamal Whitaker will serve in the wing's security forces squadron
Latham, NY (03/13/2025) — Two Cheektowaga brothers, James and Jamal Whitaker, were sworn into the New York Air National Guard on March 7, as the newest members of the 107th Attack Wing.
The two will become members of the wing's Security Forces Squadron after completing basic training and technical school in early 2026.
The Whitakers are 2021 and 2023 graduates of Tapestry Charter School in Buffalo.
Beginning in April, James and Jamal will attend the 107th Attack Wing's student flight training program while awaiting basic training dates.
As slots become available, they will attend Air Force Basic Military Training (BMT) for 7.5 weeks at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas.
Following Airman Basic, they will attend the Air Force Security Forces Academy, which is also located at Lackland. They will receive 65 days of training in basic military police functions including law enforcement, security, and combat tactics.
"I'm just really excited for all of it; the trials at basic, tech school, I definitely plan on college", James said.
The Whitakers's parents, Jennifer and James Whitaker, have served with the Buffalo Police Department for 17 years, as detective and lieutenant, respectively.
"Since our parents have a lot of experience in law enforcement, that probably helped us lean toward security forces" James said " And of course, it's an honor to serve," he added.
For now, Security Forces is the first step in a Guard career full of potential, according to the brothers.
"I'm definitely planning for a career here, stay for my 20 years. But honestly right now, one day at a time" Jamal said.
James and Jamal took the oath of enlistment in the presence of their parents, aunts, uncles, and grandparents, who shared their pride and well wishes at the conclusion of the ceremony.
"I'm just so proud of them to be able to do what they do and make this decision on their own," said father, James.
"We've got their back all the way, whatever or however role or avenue they want to travel.""It's just a privilege and an honor to serve and to be here to witness our sons, our young kings, take on the same challenge and decision on their own, it's fantastic" said their mother, Jennifer.
Media Attachments
Brothers James and Jamal Whitaker, of Cheektowaga NY, recite the oath of enlistment into the 107th Attack Wing, March 7 2025, Niagara Falls Air Reserve Station. Both are slated to join the wings Security Forces Squadron upon successful completion of training, early 2026. New York Air National Guard photo by Capt Jason Carr.
New York National Guard
Lt. Col. Jean Kratzer, 518-786-4581Share this Story
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