Florida's Cuban-American legislators, María Elvira Salazar and Mario Díaz-Balart, marked the 65th anniversary of the Bay of Pigs invasion by honoring the Assault Brigade 2506 veterans, intertwining their tribute with a message of optimism for Cuba's future.
These Republican representatives took part in ceremonies at the newly renovated Brigade 2506 Museum, located at 1821 SW 9th Street in Little Havana. The museum’s reopening, coinciding with the anniversary events, was made possible by a five-million-dollar investment.
Salazar shared a heartfelt message on social media, addressing the veterans and their families: "Today we honor and remember the brave Cuban patriots who landed at the Bay of Pigs 65 years ago filled with hope. They were abandoned but never defeated. And they will never be forgotten," she expressed.
"Today, with a new dawn for Cuba, we remember their courage... and their story. This time, we will not let them down," she emphasized.
The congresswoman, representing Florida's 27th district, was seen in photos speaking from a podium inside the museum, accompanied by brigade veterans, standing before the yellow and blue flag of Brigade 2506.
Díaz-Balart, the senior member of Florida's delegation and Vice Chair of the House Appropriations Committee, delivered his remarks from an official House podium, with the historical flag of Brigade 2506 in the background.
"On the 65th anniversary of the Bay of Pigs Invasion, we remember the courageous Cuban patriots who risked everything in the fight for freedom against a brutal dictatorship. Their bravery reminds us that the struggle for freedom in Cuba is far from over, and today, that freedom is closer than ever thanks to President Trump's leadership," he declared.
"A free Cuba is in the best interest of the United States' national security and the region. As the Cuban people continue to resist tyranny, the United States stands firm in supporting their right to live in freedom and dignity," he concluded.
The Brigade 2506 Museum, spanning 11,000 square feet, features seven interactive stations, over 800 digitized photographs, and a repository of historical archives narrating the brigadistas' training in Guatemala through to the release of the prisoners in December 1962.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Bay of Pigs Anniversary
What was the Bay of Pigs invasion?
The Bay of Pigs invasion was a failed military operation in 1961, where Cuban exiles attempted to overthrow Fidel Castro's government with support from the U.S. government.
Who were the members of the Assault Brigade 2506?
The Assault Brigade 2506 consisted of Cuban exiles trained by the CIA to carry out the invasion at the Bay of Pigs in an attempt to overthrow Castro's regime.
What is the significance of the Brigade 2506 Museum?
The Brigade 2506 Museum serves as a historical archive and educational center, preserving the legacy and stories of the Bay of Pigs invasion and its veterans.