Photo By Tech. Sgt. Kevin Donaldson | Col. Sean Garell, left, commander of the 106th Operations Group and U.S. Air Force Lt....... read more read more
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FRANCIS S. GABRESKI AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, WESTHAMPTON BEACH, N.Y. — New York Air National Guard Lt. Col. Marty Viera, a Rocky Point native, took command of the 106th Rescue Wing’s 103rd Rescue Squadron during a June 27, 2025, ceremony at Francis S. Gabreski Air National Guard Base in Westhampton Beach.
Although the ceremony marked the official change of command, Viera had already been leading the squadron since April.
The 103rd Rescue Squadron is composed of Air Force pararescuemen, known as PJs, combat rescue officers, and support staff.
These Airmen are trained to conduct combat search and rescue, technical rescue, and advanced emergency medical care in some of the world’s most challenging environments. Viera replaces Lt. Col. Sal Sferrazza, who is now retired.
Col. Sean Garell, commander of the 106th Operations and the presiding officer for the ceremony, praised Sferrazza for his professionalism and dedication and welcomed Viera to his new role.
“Leadership may change, but the mission endures and so does the spirit of the 103rd Rescue Squadron,” Garell said. “Your duty is to run into the fire, to face difficult circumstances and engage with people when they are at their worst. That’s why pararescue is the best at what it does.”
In his remarks, Viera thanked his family, mentors, and the squadron for their support, and he emphasized his vision for the future.
“Leadership isn’t about control. It’s about trust, accountability, and creating space for people to thrive,” Viera said. “Let’s build a squadron that’s sharp, resilient, and united in purpose. Let’s raise the standards, push and support each other, and be the best unit people want to join.”
“I am honored and humbled to assume command of what I believe is the best squadron in the United States Air Force and Air National Guard,” he said.
Prior to enlisting in the Air Force in 2002, worked as a science teacher for 10 years in Howell, New Jersey, after receiving his bachelor’s degree. He was also a senior ocean lifeguard for Suffolk County Parks and Recreation.
He has deployed in support of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. While deployed in Afghanistan he helped save ten lives.
He most recently deployed to the Horn of Africa.
During Blizzard NEMO in November 2013, Viera directed directly facilitated eight rescues and assisted in 15 additional lifesaving efforts.
In 2017, he served as assistant team chief during the rescue of crew members aboard the Motor Vessel Tamar. The rescue team conducted stabilization of two critically burned crew members for three days until a Portuguese helicopter evacuated them.
Throughout his career, he has held key leadership roles, at the 106th Operations Support Squadron, including Director of Combat Mission Support, Director of Medicine, and Director of Operations.
His awards include the Airman’s Medal, the Air Medal, the Air and Space Commendation Medal and the Air and Space Achievement Medal. He also achieved Master Aircrew, Static Line Jumpmaster, Combat Dive Supervisor and Freefall Parachutist Badges.
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 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.
| Date Taken: | 06.07.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 06.11.2025 12:05 |
| Story ID: | 500157 |
| Location: | WESTHAMPTON BEACH, NEW YORK, US |
| Hometown: | ROCKY POINT, NEW YORK, US |
| Web Views: | 74 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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