New York, NY, November 7, 2011 … The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) honored a New York Police Department (NYPD) commander who has been on the "frontline in the war on terror," in recognition of his courage and dedication to the safety and security of one of the nation's largest metropolitan populations.
Thomas P. Galati, Assistant Chief and Commanding Officer of the Intelligence Division, received the ADL William and Naomi Gorowitz Institute Service Award, which salutes outstanding achievements in combating terrorism, extremism and injustice, on Nov. 3 during the League's 2011 Annual Meeting in New York City.
"He serves his city and our nation on the frontline in the war on terror, which is why we chose him to receive this award," said Alan Gerry, Honorary Member of the National Commission. "Tom has an impeccable pedigree and a distinguished record of service. We are proud of the work he and his team do every day to protect us all, and we salute his leadership and dedication."
A member of the ADL New York Regional Office Law Enforcement Advisory Committee, Mr. Galati has become a pivotal link between the ADL and the NYPD, providing accurate, critical information when potential terror-related situations arise in New York or Israel. Last year, he traveled to Israel with other senior police officials from the Northeast to attend a counter-terrorism training seminar sponsored by ADL.
Mr. Galati has served the NYPD in different capacities for more than 27 years. He currently manages almost 800 officers and analysts in New York and 11 foreign posts, and oversees the daily operations of the investigative, intelligence collection, and analytical components of the Intelligence Division. In addition, he directs and coordinates the NYPD's investigative response with the FBI, U.S. Secret Service, Department of State, Department of Homeland Security and various international police agencies. He also helps develop operational intelligence and conduct investigations related to criminal and terrorist threats, as well as oversees security plans for major events and the Mayor's security.
"I am humbled to be listed amongst the past recipients of this award," said Mr. Galati. "The assistance that ADL provides to the law enforcement community is invaluable, as it provides intelligent and driven resources, and a commitment to building a safer community. It has been a valuable partner and resource to me as a police officer."
The ADL William and Naomi Gorowitz Institute on Terrorism and Extremism works to combat the threat of terrorism through educational, political and legal means. It is dedicated to providing timely information and educational opportunities to the law enforcement community. Established by Alan Gerry in 1987 to honor his late parents, the Institute assists the law enforcement community by providing resources for tracking extremists and terrorists across the U.S.
Past recipients of the Gorowitz award include: former Boston, New York and Los Angeles Police Chief William J. Bratton; former Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security Michael Chertoff; former CIA Director George Tenet; former FBI Director Louis J. Freeh; NYPD Commissioner and former Commissioner of U.S. Customs Service Raymond W. Kelly; and U.S. Senator Charles E. Schumer.