Our Heroes
One of the most basic human needs is to feel safe. Allied Universal® security professionals help people, businesses and communities meet that need every day.
Read about our heroes who are commended for their courage, outstanding achievements and noble qualities
Learn how you can become a hero.
A transportation operator in Minnesota has partnered with Allied Universal to provide Transit Rider Investment Program (TRIP) agents to ride light rail, check fares, write tickets, provide information to passengers, and administer first aid, including for drug overdoses. In the TRIP program’s first few months, crime aboard buses and trains declined by nearly 8%, even as the service carried more passengers. Serious crimes identified by the FBI, including homicides, robberies and assaults, declined by 16% during the first quarter. At the same time, overall ridership increased by 13% compared to the previous year.
Allied Universal Canine Detection Handler Joe Rios and Zeus, his trusty German Shepherd partner, work tirelessly to keep patrons safe at a renowned retail shopping center in New York City.
Joe and Zeus address the threat of explosives and deter criminal activity at the mall and many other high-profile locations throughout the city.
“From the moment we met, I knew Zeus was special. He is extremely intelligent with a natural drive and desire to work. The regular change in site view keeps him engaged and at the top of his game,” said Joe of his partner.
Their partnership extends beyond their day jobs. While Joe and Zeus enjoy their downtime at home, they also love challenging themselves by learning new skills. They recently returned to the classroom to train to detect firearms. Click here to learn more about this remarkable duo's contributions to public safety.
Security Professional Snyder recently faced an active shooter situation in a West Virginia medical building.
Having just completed a shift nearby, Security Professional Snyder was at a doctor's appointment when he heard gunshots and sprang into action following active shooter protocol. He moved room by room, clearing people and directing them to safety.
When Security Professional Snyder heard another gunshot and moved in its direction, he witnessed the assailant shoot a female before fleeing the scene.
Though unable to neutralize the threat, Security Professional Snyder was able to open a door and provide cover for doctors and nurses as they attempted to save the victim’s life. Tragically, the female succumbed to her injuries. Police apprehended the suspect shortly after the incident.
The heroic actions of Security Professional Snyder underscore the importance of preparedness and quick thinking in the face of unexpected and dangerous situations, shedding light on the bravery exhibited by security professionals in protecting lives.
The Office of the Secretary of Defense has named Allied Universal Operations Manager Martinez a Patriotic Employer. The designation is given to people who contribute to national security by supporting employee participation in America’s National Guard and Reserve Force. The award reflects the high level of support Martinez has shown her employees serving in the Guard and Reserve Force.
The designation can only be initiated by a grateful employee. Martinez was recognized by Allied Universal Team Member Gonzalez who is also a National Guard member.
Almost half of the United States Armed Forces is comprised of members of the Guard and Reserve. The Department of Defense shares these citizen soldiers with their civilian employers, many of whom – like Allied Universal – provide significant support to employees who are proudly serving. Allied Universal is proud to be a patriotic employer listed on the Department of Defense’s website.
Allied Universal acquired MSA Security in 2021 and became the world’s largest non-governmental canine detection company.
Every morning, Jean can’t wait to get to the office and bury her nose in her work – literally. Jean is a five-year-old yellow Labrador working as an Allied Universal explosive detection canine and her office is a sprawling data center for a global financial institution. She was imprinted on all five families of commercial explosives, as well as homemade explosives.
Her human handler, James, is a retired NYPD officer who says his partner was born to sniff out explosives.
“Jean and I trust each other. She knows I’m on the other end of that leash and that we have an important job to do. We work in a very fluid environment that requires screening of all incoming deliveries, vehicles and guests. It can be demanding, but Jean has incredible stamina. We also conduct exterior perimeter and interior sweeps – that’s her favorite because the employees always greet her with a big smile. She loves people,” said James.