U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor released the following statement today regarding the change of command at MacDill Air Force Base:

“I commend and thank Col. Lenny Richoux for his outstanding service to our nation, to our community and to MacDill Air Force Base. As commander of MacDill, Col. Richoux showed true leadership, creativity and wisdom.

“I welcome Col. Scott DeThomas and his family to Tampa and his new post at MacDill. One of my priorities is to make the case to decision-makers at the Pentagon that Tampa is a ‘tanker town’ and ideally situated for the next generation of aerial refueling jets. Bringing the KC-46As to MacDill would be a significant boost for our economy, jobs and the longevity of MacDill. I look forward to talking with Col. DeThomas about this important initiative.

“I am also dedicated to working with Col. DeThomas on initiatives to help improve the lives of our troops veterans and their families, and I know our whole community welcomes the opportunity to help his family get settled in our community. I look forward to working with him on issues of national security so we can keep our community and our country safe.

“MacDill Air Force Base is one of the biggest economic engines in our community, with a nearly $3 billion annual economic impact. The base also supports thousands and thousands of jobs. I look forward to continuing my strong relationship with base leadership so that MacDill remains an essential base to our country’s national security.”