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Secretary Johnson Views Papal Security Operations in Philadelphia

Release Date: September 18, 2015

For Immediate Release
DHS Press Office
Contact: 202-282-8010

PHILADELPHIA — Today, Secretary of Homeland Security Jeh Johnson traveled to Philadelphia to review the operational security and contingency planning in preparation for Pope Francis’ visit next week. Secretary Johnson has designated the Pope’s visit as a National Special Security Event (NSSE), which allows for enhanced cooperation of local, state and federal partners in establishing a safe and secure environment.

While in Philadelphia, Secretary Johnson met with Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter, U.S. Secret Service Director Joseph Clancy, and Philadelphia Police Commissioner Charles Ramsey to discuss security planning and preparations for the Pope’s visit. During the meeting, the Secretary and Mayor also discussed the selection of Philadelphia to host the 2016 Democratic National Convention and the security efforts associated with that event. Secretary Johnson underscored the Department’s continued commitment to working with the city’s leadership, local law enforcement, and emergency management on a range of homeland security-related priorities and issues.

Secretary Johnson, along with Mayor Nutter, Director Clancy, and Commissioner Ramsey, visited the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul and viewed papal security operations along the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. They also toured and reviewed operations at the Multi-Agency Communications Center (MACC), the central point of communications for the agencies involved in the operational security and public safety efforts for the Papal Visit to Philadelphia. While at the MACC, Secretary Johnson met with Department employees, who will participate in security operations during the Pope’s visit.

Tomorrow, Secretary Johnson will travel to New York to review ongoing security preparations in advance of the 70th United Nations General Assembly and Pope Francis’ visit. While in New York, Secretary Johnson will also visit St. Patrick’s Cathedral, the United Nations Headquarters, and the United Nations Coordinating Center.

For more information, including a Fact Sheet on the Department’s support efforts for the visit of Pope Francis, please visit www.dhs.gov.

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Last Updated: 09/20/2019
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