LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — Security has been ramped up across town as thousands take to Las Vegas to celebrate New Year's Eve.
The addition of force includes 250 Nevada National Guard service members, officers from the Metropolitan Police Department, Nevada Highway Patrol troopers and Homeland Security members.
The additional sources give local law enforcement much-needed flexibility and support to respond quickly to any situation, according to authorities.
"This is why we signed up," said Jose Espinoza, a National Guard serviceman. "To be able to provide security for the citizens, the city, for Nevada, to be able to give people comfort and a sense of security."
Just the presence of armed military members at McCarran International Airport was also comforting to arriving tourists.
"You feel a little more secure," said one visitor from El Paso, Texas. "If anything happens, at least you know they'll respond to it."
The New Year's security mission began at 11 a.m. on Monday and will end on New Year's Day.
