US Army Major and NYPD Officer Dies During Overseas Deployment
A distinguished career dedicated to service, both in uniform and as a first responder, has tragically ended with the passing of US Army Major Sorffly Davius. The New York City police officer and member of the US National Guard died while on deployment in Kuwait, where he was supporting Operation Epic Fury.
Major Davius, 46, had been assigned to the Headquarters Battalion of the 42nd Infantry Division. He deployed to Kuwait last summer as part of Operation Spartan Shield, a critical mission aimed at bolstering defence relationships, enhancing regional security, and deterring aggression across the Middle East.
Within the Division Headquarters at Camp Buehring Army Base, Major Davius served as a data systems engineering officer. His responsibilities were crucial, focusing on the security of computer and communications networks, as confirmed by New York National Guard officials.
While the precise circumstances surrounding his death remain under review, US Central Command indicated that he succumbed to a “health-related” incident. Importantly, the US military has clarified that his passing was not combat-related.
The New York Police Department noted that Major Davius had been serving the United States in support of Operation Epic Fury, a joint operation between the United States and Israel with a focus on Iran.
His service extended far beyond his military duties. Major Davius leaves behind a grieving wife and six children. His commitment to public service began in 2004 when he joined the Air Force. He later transferred to the New York National Guard in 2013. A year later, he commenced his service with the NYPD, where he was stationed at the 79th Precinct. Prior to his military and police careers, Major Davius also served with the Fire Department of New York as a paramedic.
Major Davius’s dedication and bravery were recognised through numerous accolades and commendations. These included the Air Force Commendation Medal, the Army Achievement Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Global War on Terror Service Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, and the Humane Service to New York State Medal.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul paid tribute to Major Davius, describing him as “the ‘Citizen Soldier’ in every sense.” She highlighted his dual role as a dedicated NYPD officer and a decorated Army veteran, emphasizing that his career was defined by protecting others. Governor Hochul also noted his distinguished service on Joint Task Force Empire Shield, where he was instrumental in defending the state’s most high-profile locations against threats.
“His life is a powerful reminder of the extraordinary sacrifices made by our National Guard members, who balance their roles as citizens, first responders and soldiers,” Governor Hochul stated. “Major Davius was a devoted husband and father. I personally conveyed my deepest condolences to his wife and will keep his family, colleagues and all who knew him in my thoughts.” She concluded with a prayer for the safety of all service members and first responders.
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani and Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch echoed these sentiments, remembering Major Davius for a career “defined by service – to his country and to New York City.” Both the NYPD and FDNY extended their condolences to his family. The police department shared on social media, “May we never forget Officer Davius’ sacrifice and may his memory be a blessing.”
Major Davius’s death occurred just one day before President Donald Trump attended a dignified transfer ceremony for service members killed in the Iran war. The ceremony, held at Dover Air Force Base, marked the return of the remains of six US service members who had died in Kuwait. These six individuals were Army reservists with the 103rd Sustainment Command, based in Des Moines, Iowa. Their names were Nicole Amor, 39; Cody Khork, 35; Declan Coady, 20; Robert Marzan, 54; Jeffrey O’Brien, 45; and Noah Tietjens, 42.
In a separate incident, a seventh US service member died after sustaining serious wounds during an Iranian attack on US troops in Saudi Arabia on March 1. US Central Command confirmed the fatality, stating that the soldier’s identity would be withheld for 24 hours following notification of next of kin.
