Photo By Spc. Stuart Martin | U.S. Army 1st Sgt. Rich Kastor, incoming senior enlisted leader of Charlie Battery,...... read more read more
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JAMAICA, QUEENS, N.Y. — New York Army National Guard 1st Sgt. Rich Kastor assumed responsibility as the senior enlisted leader of Charlie Battery, 1st Battalion, 258th Field Artillery Regiment, during a ceremony at Jamaica Armory in Queens, N.Y., on Aug. 8, 2026.
Kastor replaced 1st Sgt. Robert Delgado, who stepped down after serving as the battery’s top noncommissioned officer.
Capt. Rodrick Ortiz, the new Charlie Battery commander, oversaw the transfer and emphasized Kastor’s vital role in maintaining unit discipline, physical standards, and combat effectiveness.
As first sergeant, Kastor serves as the commander’s primary enlisted advisor and takes charge of the daily training, welfare, and readiness of the battery's Soldiers.
Kastor comes into the position following his promotion to the senior enlisted rank earlier that day. His wife Laura, and their children, Dutton and Grady, were officially welcomed into the artillery community during the ceremony.
The Queens-based unit operates M777A2 155-millimeter towed howitzers and routinely trains to respond to state emergency mobilizations and overseas federal deployments.
Ortiz also recognized Delgado for his dedication and leadership in keeping the battery’s artillerymen trained and mission-ready.
Delgado kept his parting remarks characteristically brief and focused entirely on physical readiness and discipline.
“Actions speak louder than words,” Delgado told the formation.
“Let’s hit this physical training test, everybody,” Delgado added. “Let’s roll.”
Before relinquishing his duties, Delgado’s wife, Yvonne, and his children, Ariel, Eric, and Marcus, were recognized for their patience and unwavering support throughout his military service.
| Date Taken: | 08.08.2026 |
| Date Posted: | 08.18.2026 15:44 |
| Story ID: | 572688 |
| Location: | QUEENS, NEW YORK, US |
| Web Views: | 25 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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