MIAMI, FL - Congressman Carlos Gimenez (FL-28), member of the House Armed Services Committee, visited Homestead Air Reserve Base (HARB), Special Operations Command South, and the U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) this week in Miami-Dade County. Congressman Gimenez is fighting to ensure Homestead Air Reserve Base receives the next generation of F-35 Fighter Jets to guarantee the security of South Florida and the nation.
“Miami-Dade County is a regional hub for so many of South Florida’s military installations including Homestead Air Reserve Base, SOCOM, and SOUTHCOM,” said Congressman Gimenez. “As a Member of the House Armed Services Committee, I look forward to working with my colleagues and fight for the brave men and women who serve our nation, right here in South Florida.”
On Monday afternoon, Congressman Gimenez met with the 482nd Fighter Wing and the 93rd Fighter Squadron Makos at Homestead Air Reserve Base and the Special Operations Command South. He was greeted and briefed by CommanderColonel Joshua G. Padgett, Vice Commander Colonel Surya James Frickel, and Command Chief Master Sergeant Jeremy M. Allen.
The 482nd Fighter Wing, Air Force Reserve Command, maintains and operates Homestead Air Reserve Base. It is a fully combat-ready unit capable of providing F-16C multipurpose fighter aircraft, along mission ready pilots and support personnel, for short notice worldwide deployment. The 93rd Fighter Squadron “Makos” fly and maintain the F-16C Fighting Falcon aircraft.
Congressman Gimenez with SOUTHCOM Commander Gen. Laura Richardson
On Thursday, Congressman Gimenez visited U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) and was briefed by Commander Gen. Laura Richardson on their top priorities, including strengthening the United States’ partners in Latin America, combating narcoterrorism and socialist dictatorships in the region.
Congressman Gimenez serves on the House Armed Services Committee, Homeland Security Committee, and the Select Committee on China. He represents Florida’s 28th Congressional District based in Miami-Dade County and the Florida Keys, including Homestead Air Reserve Base and Naval Air Station Key West.