U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL-14) released the following statement regarding today’s change of command ceremonies (CENTCOM and SOCOM) at MacDill Air Force Base, which she represents as part of her congressional district:

“The change of command ceremonies at CENTCOM and SOCOM are important reminders of the current challenges in combating terrorism around the world. While we have seen progress in the effort to eliminate ISIS, America must remain vigilant to ensure that our special forces have every technological edge, and that we are building the broad-based international coalition necessary to eradicate terrorists.  The special operations expertise that both Gen. Joseph Votel and Lt. Gen. Raymond “Tony” Thomas bring to their new commanding roles are vital to our national security strategy which has morphed into one of combatting rising asymmetrical threats. The elevation of these leaders signals the central role that MacDill AFB plays in counterterrorism, and I expressed to them that my neighbors in Tampa Bay and I are unified in our support for the base’s missions. I will continue to urge my colleagues in Congress to support MacDill AFB and its commanders and personnel with the resources and tools they need to ensure their technological superiority -- today's threats require us to be tough and smart.

“Such occasions also provide an opportunity to express the gratitude of the Tampa Bay community and our great country to the service members and leaders who keep America safe. Gen. Lloyd Austin, the outgoing CENTCOM commander, served America with distinction. I expressed the gratitude of all of us to Gen. Lloyd Austin, who has served our country in most difficult conflicts over past decades, and his wife Charlene.”

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