TROY, N.Y. (NEWS10) — A New York Army National Guard officer assigned to the 42nd Infantry Division in Troy died while deployed in Kuwait on Friday, according to the U.S. Department of War. Major Sorffly Davius, originally from Queens, was 46 years old.
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The New York National Guard said Davius died of undetermined, non-combat-related causes. An investigation into the incident is reportedly underway.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of Major Davius at this most difficult time,” Major General Ray Shields, adjutant general of New York, said. “Service to our State and Nation is the highest calling one can make.”
The 46-year-old was assigned to the Headquarters, Headquarters Battalion, 42nd Infantry Division, based on Glenmore Road in Troy. According to the National Guard, he served as a data systems engineering officer and was responsible for computer and communications network security.
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The 42nd Infantry Division was deployed to Camp Buehring in Kuwait in the summer of 2025 to support Operation Spartan Shield. Per the Department of War, the operation aims to strengthen U.S. defense relationships and build partner capacity in the Middle East.
Davius first joined the Air Force in 2004 before transferring to the New York National Guard in 2013. He has won several awards throughout his military career, including the Air Force Commendation Medal, the Army Achievement Medal and the Globe War on Terror Service Medal…