Hegseth Visits Guantanamo Bay to Assess Immigration Operations

NAVAL STATION GUANTANAMO BAY, Cuba – Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth visited Naval Station Guantanamo Bay (NSGB) on February 25, 2025, to evaluate the Department of Homeland Security‘s (DHS) operations regarding illegal immigration and the mission of Joint Task Force Southern Guard (JTF-SG).

Hegseth emphasized the significance of NSGB, stating, “Guantanamo Bay represents justice, deterrence, and professionalism.” His visit marked his first since being confirmed in January, allowing him to engage with military personnel that play crucial roles in current operations.

In his remarks to service members, Hegseth highlighted the Defense Department’s dedication to securing American borders, stating, “It’s time to lock down ours on behalf of the American people,” reflecting instructions from President Trump to collaborate closely with DHS, Customs and Border Protection, and Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

During the visit, Hegseth was welcomed by Adm. Alvin Holsey, U.S. Southern Command commander, and Maj. Gen. Phil Ryan, JTF-SG commander, along with other senior leaders overseeing operations at the base.

Hegseth observed military personnel coordinating with interagency partners to manage the transportation of illegal immigrants arriving by air. “These warriors are directly supporting the apprehension and processing of individuals encountered at the border,” he commented, expressing gratitude to their families for their sacrifices.

Having lunch with troops engaged in the DHS-led operation, Hegseth remarked, “It’s great to put faces to those numbers and names,” underlining the importance of every individual’s contribution to the mission.

The Secretary received a detailed briefing on mission operations at NSGB, including the migrant operations center’s capacity, security protocols, and potential expansion plans. Angel Cata, a supervisory detention and deportation officer with ICE, noted that the mission demands “precision, coordination, and commitment.”

“The Joint Operations Center is a team of teams,” Maj. Gen. Ryan added, commending the impressive achievements of the personnel in the last three weeks.

Hegseth concluded his tour by visiting operational facilities, medical support stations, and security checkpoints before inspecting Camp VI, a medium-security detention facility for high-threat detainees.

Before departing, he engaged with Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, and Marines of JTF-SG, thanking them for their service. “What you’re doing on behalf of the nation is incredibly important,” he emphasized, encouraging them to continue their professional work.

He presented eight commemorative coins to recognize exceptional service. Command Sgt. Maj. Eric Olsen of JTF-SG remarked on the significant progress made over a short period, saying, “They’ve been instrumental in making it happen.”

JTF-SG comprises over 1,000 DHS personnel and service members from multiple U.S. military branches, working together to expand the camp’s capacity and ensure humane treatment of housed individuals according to ICE standards. Hegseth praised their efforts, calling it “a success story and a testament to the capabilities of U.S. Southern Command and U.S. Northern Command.”