New York representative to deploy with National Guard as part of coronavirus response

Rep. Max Rose (D-N.Y.) announced Tuesday he plans to deploy with the National Guard to assist with coronavirus response in his Staten Island district in the coming weeks.

Rose, a captain in the Army National Guard and combat veteran, said in a statement the deployment will start on April 1 and he plans to serve as an operations officer.

“Over the past month I have seen acts of incredible bravery and sacrifice by our first responders, nurses, doctors, and essential workers who never thought they’d be on the frontlines of a crisis like the COVID-19 pandemic,” his statement said.  

“My activation and deployment is nothing compared to what our city, state, and country has asked of all them. And it’s certainly nothing compared to the other men and women serving in uniform both here at home and overseas. I am just trying to do my duty and my small part.” 

The New York Democrat went on to thank New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo (D) for his efforts in helping facilitate response operations. 

“I want to thank Governor Cuomo for his leadership in identifying and securing these critical sites for Staten Island and I look forward to serving my state beside so many dedicated public servants. Like many Guardsmen and women across the country, I am leaving my day job to serve our nation,” he continued. 

“Unlike them, I will be able to return to it in order to vote if needed. That’s a privilege and responsibility that I take very seriously. I’m also grateful to have an amazing staff who will continue their work on behalf of Staten Islanders and South Brooklynites. Together, I know we will overcome this pandemic.”

In addition to deploying the National Guard, Rose vowed to keep constituents informed on the latest developments in what’s happening with the virus, with his office holding a small business and nonprofit webinar on April 3 to talk about relief programs available to them.