Congresswoman Kathy Castor released the following statement today regarding the change of command at Tampa- headquartered U.S. Special Operations Command (SOCOM):

“The change of command ceremony comes at a somber time for our community and our nation. My heart goes out to the families and friends of the brave service members who were killed over the weekend. Their service and heroism to our nation reminds us all of the dangers our brave armed forces face every day in keeping our country safe.

“I commend Adm. Eric Olson for a job well done during his duty as commander for the past four years. He worked to make sure our joint special operations forces were ready and able to complete the challenging missions facing our country. The mission to kill Osama bin Laden gave us a window into the modernization of our Special Forces, led by commanders such as Adm. Olson. Our nation has become smarter, more strategic and better prepared to face unconventional and emerging threats.

“I welcome Adm. William McRaven to Tampa and to his new post as commander of U.S. Special Operations Command. Adm. McRaven oversaw Joint Special Operations Command’s successful killing of Osama bin Laden. Our country couldn’t be more proud of his leadership. I know Adm. McRaven and am confident in his ability to continue Adm. Olson’s path forward and in his ability to steer our brave service members through the next stages of our military and national security operations.”

Castor’s district encompasses MacDill Air Force Base, where U.S. Central Command and U.S. Special Operations Command are headquartered.