Major Sorffly Davius, a dedicated member of the New York Police Department and the United States National Guard, has tragically passed away after suffering a medical episode while deployed in Kuwait. The 46-year-old was supporting Operation Epic Fury, a joint military operation between the United States and Israel in Iran, at the time of his death.
Service Across Multiple Fronts
Davius had been assigned to the Headquarters Battalion of the 42nd Infantry Division and deployed to Kuwait last summer as part of Operation Spartan Shield. This mission aims to strengthen defense relationships, enhance regional security, and deter aggression across the Middle East region. At Camp Buehring Army Base, he served as a data systems engineering officer in the Division Headquarters, with responsibilities encompassing computer and communications network security.
A Life of Public Service
His career was marked by extensive public service across multiple organizations:
- Joined the Air Force in 2004
- Transferred to the New York National Guard in 2013
- Began service with the NYPD in 2014, assigned to the 79th Precinct
- Previously served as a paramedic with the Fire Department of New York
Davius now leaves behind a wife and six children. US Central Command confirmed he died in a "health-related" incident, with the exact cause of death currently under review. The military has clarified that his death was not combat-related.
Recognition and Tributes
Throughout his distinguished career, Davius earned numerous medals and commendations including:
- Air Force Commendation Medal
- Army Achievement Medal (awarded twice)
- National Defense Service Medal
- Global War on Terror Service Medal
- Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal
- Humane Service to New York State Medal
New York Governor Kathy Hochul praised Davius as "the 'Citizen Soldier' in every sense," noting his dedication as both an NYPD officer and decorated Army veteran. "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," she stated.
Governor Hochul personally conveyed condolences to Davius' wife and emphasized his service on Joint Task Force Empire Shield, where he helped defend the state's most high-profile locations from threats.
City Officials Mourn Loss
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani and Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch remembered Davius for a career "defined by service - to his country and to New York City." Both the NYPD and FDNY shared their condolences with his family, with the police department writing on social media: "May we never forget Officer Davius' sacrifice and may his memory be a blessing."
Broader Military Context
Davius' death occurred just one day before President Donald Trump attended the first dignified transfer ceremony for those killed in the Iran war. The President traveled to Dover Air Force Base where the remains of six US service members who died in Kuwait were returned to their families.
These six Americans - Nicole Amor (39), Cody Khork (35), Declan Coady (20), Robert Marzan (54), Jeffrey O'Brien (45), and Noah Tietjens (42) - were Army reservists with the 103rd Sustainment Command based in Des Moines, Iowa. Additionally, US Central Command reported on Sunday that a seventh US service member died after being "seriously wounded" during an Iranian attack on US troops in Saudi Arabia on March 1st.
The agency stated the fallen soldier's identity would be withheld for 24 hours following notification of next of kin, maintaining protocol during this difficult period for military families.
