WASHINGTON – U.S. Army Maj. Beatriz Florez, a McAllen, Texas native and current pageant winner of the Ms. Texas Belleza Latina 2016, joined the Joint Task Force - National Capital Region (JTF-NCR) in support of the 58th Presidential Inauguration, which will take place Jan. 20, 2017. The task force is charged with coordinating all military ceremonial support for the inaugural period. As a joint service committee, it includes members from all branches of the armed forces of the United States, including Reserve and National Guard components.
Florez is assigned as a supply and services officer for the JTF – NCR 58th Presidential Inaugural Support Staff Logistics Office.
“I am deeply honored by the opportunity to work such a historic event,” said Florez. “It is a unique opportunity to be part of a joint team and utilize my knowledge and skills as a logistics officer to help make the event a success."
The U.S. Armed Forces have participated in the inauguration of the president of the United States since April 30, 1789, when members of the U.S. Army, local militia units and Revolutionary War veterans escorted George Washington to his first inauguration ceremony at Federal Hall in New York City. More than two hundred twenty years later, the participation of the armed forces continues to honor our commander in chief, recognize civilian control of the armed forces and celebrate democracy.
Participation by the armed forces traditionally includes musical units, marching bands, color guards, salute batteries and honor cordons. Soldiers, Marines, Sailors, Airmen and Coast Guardsmen also provide invaluable assistance to the Presidential Inaugural Committee and the Joint Congressional Committee on Inauguration Ceremonies.
The Secretary of Defense authorized 820 service members to coordinate DoD support in and around the nation’s capital. On Inauguration Day, more than 5,000 service members will participate in the 58th Presidential Inauguration ceremonies and other events.
Just as military men and women show their commitment to this country while deployed around the globe, participation of service members in this traditional event demonstrates our military’s support to the nation’s commander in chief.
For more information about military support to the 58th Presidential Inauguration or Maj. Beatriz Florez, please email JTF-NCR Public Affairs Media Operations at usarmy.mcnair.mdw.mbx.jtfncr-inaugural-media@mail.mil or call 202-685-3161.