Albany, NY - March 11, 2013 - Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced the appointment of retired U.S. Army Colonel Eric J. Hesse as the new Director of the New York State Division of Veterans' Affairs.
"Colonel Hesse has a long and distinguished record as an Army leader dedicated to improving the readiness of our military and serving our nation both overseas and here in New York State," Governor Cuomo said. "As Director of New York State's Division of Veterans' Affairs, he will continue his distinguished career of service by helping lead our state's efforts to ensure New York's veterans are receiving the support that they need."
Colonel Eric J. Hesse, USA, Retired, said, "I am honored to join Governor Cuomo's administration and help guide the state's efforts to ensure that New York takes care of veterans and their family members and provides our returning military service members with the support and benefits that they deserve. Since taking office, the Governor has worked to make New York State friendlier for veterans, including returning service members as they transition into civilian life and seek employment opportunities here in our state. I look forward to working in this administration on behalf of all our veterans."
Major General Patrick Murphy, the Adjutant General of New York, said, "Colonel Hesse has been an outstanding Army officer, and his extensive experience with both the Active Duty military and the National Guard, along with his service in Afghanistan, Iraq and Kosovo, helps him understand what veterans go through. I look forward to working with him on veterans' issues as part of Governor Cuomo's team."
Colonel Hesse retired from the Army last week after more than 26 years of service that included deployments to Iraq, Afghanistan and Kosovo.
Since July 2009, Colonel Hesse served as Command Inspector General of the New York Army and Air National Guard in Latham, New York where he was responsible for ensuring the readiness of an 18,000-member organization dispersed across New York State. His efforts focused on professional development and education programs as well as implementing a statewide inspection oversight effort aimed at improving military readiness.
Colonel Hesse previously served in numerous leadership positions culminating as Command Inspector General of the 10th Mountain Division (Light Infantry) at Fort Drum, New York. The appointment is effective immediately.
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For More Information, Please Contact:
Governor's Press Office
NYC Press Office: 212.681.4640
Albany Press Office: 518.474.8418
press.office@exec.ny.gov
