[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 82 (Tuesday, June 11, 2013)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E839]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




            RECOGNIZING THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF US SOUTHCOM

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. ILEANA ROS-LEHTINEN

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 11, 2013

  Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, I would like to congratulate US 
SOUTHCOM on the 50th anniversary, today June 11th. For the past five 
decades this command has protected and defended the privileges, 
comforts and freedoms that we, as Americans, enjoy.
  We are fortunate and privileged to have General John Kelly as the new 
Commander of United States Southern Command. His distinguished career 
and exemplary service to our nation is a testament to the ideals of 
honor, courage, and commitment. SOUTHCOM has continued to grow and 
thrive in South Florida with its 1,200 SOUTHCOM employees. These 
individuals have dedicated their lives to the service of others and 
truly embody the heart and spirit of America. I thank each and every 
one of them for their efforts as well as the good they provide 
throughout the hemisphere.
  Today, SOUTHCOM celebrates half a century of excellence and service 
to the citizens of the United States. Over these years, many brave men 
and women in uniform have worked tirelessly to keep us safe while also 
promoting peace, security, and democracy throughout the Western 
Hemisphere. From combating international crime syndicates and drug 
lords, to monitoring human rights and providing humanitarian relief, 
SOUTHCOM has a proven track record of achievement. Its successful 
efforts in counter-terrorism and in combating illicit trafficking 
across this hemisphere have helped to promote democracy abroad and has 
encouraged respect for human rights. SOUTHCOM certainly remains a 
beacon of strength and resilience throughout the region.
  Shortly before the United States entered the Second World War, 
President Roosevelt established the U.S. Caribbean Defense Command with 
the goal of defending the Panama Canal and the surrounding area. 
Following the conclusion of the war, the U.S. Caribbean Defense Command 
was renamed the U.S. Southern Command. The new name was intended to 
reflect the command's changed responsibilities with an emphasis of 
ensuring security, stability, and prosperity throughout Central and 
South America, as well as the Caribbean.
  SOUTHCOM encompasses six major mission areas, including humanitarian 
assistance and disaster relief, as well as assisting our allies in the 
region and while promoting military-to-military interaction. Its 
successful efforts in counter-terrorism and in combating illicit 
trafficking across this hemisphere is key to regional stability even 
while it continues to be a leader in medical assistance, providing 
quality medical care for schools and community centers. I know many 
individuals still remember the devastating 2010 earthquake in Haiti, in 
which SOUTHCOM took the lead in humanitarian effort on the ground that 
undoubtedly saved thousands.
  SOUTHCOM has had a tremendous impact on our local economy in South 
Florida and I applaud its efforts to give back to our community. 
Congratulations again to SOUTHCOM on its 50th anniversary. I look 
forward to working with General Kelly and his wonderful team in South 
Florida. Thank you again for all that you do.

                          ____________________