Camp Smith, NY – Brigadier General Isabel Rivera Smith, a trailblazing military leader and the first woman and Latina to command the New York Army National Guard’s 53rd Troop Command, was honored with a special Senate Proclamation and medal on Tuesday by New York State Senator Pete Harckham. The recognition took place at the Camp Smith Training Site, highlighting General Smith’s exceptional career and her groundbreaking role within the National Guard.
“I congratulate General Smith for assuming command of this important unit in the Army National Guard and being a trailblazer as the first woman and Latina to head the 53rd Troop Command,” Harckham said. “I also want to thank Guard members from Camp Smith who are assisting the New York State Department of Corrections as it faces current challenges in upstate correctional facilities. The sacrifice and commitment of these men and women show how invaluable they are to all New Yorkers.”
“As commander of the 53rd Troop Command, it is an honor to be recognized by Senator Harckham for all the hard work that our soldiers do to support not only the National Guard, but also for the many local communities that we assist,” said Smith, an Iraq War veteran.
Appointed in October 2024, Smith took over from Major General Jack James, becoming the first Latina to lead one of New York’s two major Army National Guard commands. The 53rd Troop Command, which she oversees, plays a critical role in providing combat support and combat service support across New York State.
A Legacy of Service and Leadership
Born in Lorain, Ohio, to Puerto Rican parents, Smith enlisted in the active Army in October 1985 as a Motor Transport Operator. Her military career has been marked by significant command assignments, including leading the Headquarters detachment of the 53rd Troop Command, commanding the 369th Special Troops Battalion, and serving as deputy team chief at the Iraq Police National Headquarters during Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2010.
Smith’s leadership extends beyond her current role; she also serves as the Director of Joint Staff for the New York National Guard, where she oversees joint operations for the Army and Air Guard, particularly during state emergencies. She will continue to balance this role alongside her responsibilities as commander of the 53rd Troop Command.
Recognizing Excellence and Dedication
The honors bestowed upon Brig. Gen. Smith reflect her dedicated service and the respect she commands within the military community. Her awards include the Legion of Merit, the Bronze Star Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal, the Army Commendation Medal, and the 2017 Latina Style Military Service Award, among others.
“It is an honor to be recognized for all the hard work that our soldiers do to support not only the National Guard but also the many local communities that we assist,” said Smith, expressing gratitude for the recognition.
Under Smith’s command, the 53rd Troop Command has been actively involved in supporting New York State correctional facilities. Guard members have assisted in distributing meals and medication to incarcerated individuals and maintaining order and wellness in these institutions, showcasing the National Guard’s versatility and commitment to public service.
