Governor Kathy Hochul visited Fort Drum on March 10 to show her support for soldiers and the local community as military operations continue overseas. During her visit, Hochul met with Major General Scott Naumann to receive a briefing on the current status of the base and discuss how New York State can further assist the facility and its personnel.
Fort Drum is recognized as the largest single-site employer in New York State, making it an important part of both the state’s economy and national defense efforts. The ongoing conflict in the Middle East has heightened concerns for service members and their families, increasing attention on support measures from state officials.
In a statement issued during her visit, Hochul said, “Fort Drum is the largest single-site employer in New York State. I want to ensure we are doing everything we can to support the Fort Drum community, which plays a critical role in the defense of our national interests, especially during the current military conflict in the Middle East.”
Hochul also reflected on her longstanding relationship with Fort Drum, saying she has been “a proud supporter of Fort Drum throughout my time in public service, rallying to save the base almost a decade ago and working to ensure that soldiers serving here have access to workforce development programs to continue working in the North Country and New York State.” She emphasized shared priorities such as energy resilience and national security.
The governor addressed recent security concerns following a terrorist attack near Gracie Mansion and continued military action in Iran. She said, “Following the terrorist attack near Gracie Mansion and continued military action in Iran, New York State remains in a heightened threat environment. We pray for the safety of all who protect us at home and abroad, including the more than 1,000 members of the National Guard who are deployed on state active duty protecting critical transit sites across New York City. I am profoundly grateful for the service members and first responders who put their lives on the line to keep their fellow New Yorkers safe.”
As international tensions persist, state leaders are expected to maintain close coordination with military installations like Fort Drum while continuing efforts to safeguard communities across New York.