SCOTIA, N.Y. -- A unit within the New York National Guard changed hands, and a new commander took control of the 501st Ordnance Battalion. The battalion specializes in the disarming of IEDs.

These weapons have played a primary role in the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Lt. Col. Andrew Caliendo is a veteran of the Iraq War. His company was deployed shortly after the 9/11 terrorist attacks. Caliendo said what he's looking forward to the most is the honor of command.

"The biggest responsibility is for the care and welfare of the troops. So, we have the companies within each battalion, the headquarters of the battalion basically commands and controls each companies. The main thing is to support the unit and support the troops, and make sure our missions get completed," said Lt. Col. Andrew Caliendo, 501st Ordnance.

Caliendo earned his master's degree from RPI.