Governor Kathy Hochul visited Moynihan Train Hall on March 12 to highlight the ongoing security efforts of the New York National Guard, Metropolitan Transit Authority Police, and New York State Police amid continued military operations overseas. Hochul met with members of Joint Task Force Empire Shield, commanded by Colonel Jeffrey Roth, as well as MTA Police Department Chief Tom Taffe and New York State Police Commander Captain Jason Timko. The visit focused on the state’s continued efforts to keep New Yorkers safe through enhanced security measures in major transit hubs and networks.
The topic is significant due to heightened global tensions and recent losses among service members. Hochul said, “Today I had the privilege to join New York’s elite citizen soldiers who work each and every day to keep New Yorkers safe. This is a particularly impactful time for our National Guard members following the tragic loss of Major Sorffly Davius over the weekend in Kuwait, who formerly served on the Joint Task Force Empire Shield with distinction, and as we continue facing a heightened threat environment.”
She added her commitment to supporting more than 1,000 National Guard members on state active duty protecting train stations, airports, and other critical infrastructure. “Amid escalating tensions overseas and as U.S. military operations continue, I am committed to supporting the more than 1,000 members of the National Guard on state active duty protecting train stations, airports, and other critical infrastructure to keep New Yorkers safe. The sacrifices our service members and law enforcement officers make do not go unnoticed, and on behalf of all New Yorkers, I thank them for their continued service,” Hochul said.
Joint Task Force Empire Shield was established after the September 11 terrorist attacks as a security force partly responsible for the military defense of New York City. The task force assists law enforcement daily in protecting major transportation hubs such as subway systems.
In last year’s budget, Hochul allocated an additional $45 million for Joint Task Force Empire Shield’s mission to deter and prevent terrorist activity in the New York City area. This funding also increased deployed personnel to 1,050 service members supporting this mission.
The governor’s visit underscores ongoing efforts by state authorities to maintain public safety during periods of international uncertainty.