VIDEO RELEASE: Senator Moody Participates in First Armed Services Committee, Questions Commanders on Strategic Posture of Indo-Pacific Command

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Senator Ashley Moody engaged panelists in a Senate Armed Services Committee titled U.S. Force Posture for Indo-Pacific Command (INDOPACOM) and U.S. Forces in Korea. This is Senator Moody's first open hearing since joining the committee:

"Florida is an essential part in our national security and armed forces-from the over 20 military installations to the tens of thousands of active-duty personnel residing in the state. As the newest member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, I look forward to the new opportunity to ensure America has the most effective fighting force on the planet," said Senator Ashley Moody.

BACKGROUND:

• Featured in the hearing are Admiral Samual Paparo, Jr., Commander of the INDOPACOM and General Xavier Brunson, Commander of the United Nations Command, Combined Forces Command, and the United States Forces Korea.
• During the hearing, Senator Moody:
  • Discussed strengthening America's defense industrial base and ensuring capabilities developed at home are rapidly integrated into operational plans to keep pace with evolving threats
  • Encouraged allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific to take a more active and coordinated role in pushing back against Chinese coercion and strengthening regional deterrence.
• Senator Moody has consistently highlighted Florida's role in strengthening the American military-Florida is home to more than 20 military installations, tens of thousands of active-duty personnel, and three combatant commands of SOUTHCOM, CENTCOM, and SOCOM.
• The Sunshine State is also home to more than 1.5 million veterans, the third largest military veteran population in the nation.
• Last year, Senator Moody secured major funding for Florida's military bases through her work on the National Defense Authorization Act, totaling over $851 million aimed to support shipbuilding, delivery of next-generation aircraft, and construction of Golden Dome missile defense.
• Senator Moody has long fought for Florida's military members. As Florida Attorney General, Moody oversaw the Military and Veterans Assistance Program to assist servicemembers, veterans and their families who encounter scams or fraud.

# # #