U.S. Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro, Emilio and Gloria Estefan welcome hundreds of service members
MIAMI, FL — In the heart of Miami’s vibrant Jungle Plaza, Blue Star Families (BSF) set the stage alight with the memorable “Rock the Fleet” show as part of the inaugural Fleet Week Miami. The open-air venue buzzed with anticipation as an enthusiastic assembly of U.S. Sailors, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen eagerly awaited the evening’s crowning performances led by the iconic band, The Wailers.
The evening thundered to life with an electrifying set by combat Veteran and Miami DJ sensation DJ KA5 who was recognized for his 2023 opening for Cuban American rapper Pit Bull. His infectious rhythms welcomed more than 1,600 service members, setting the pulse for a night etched in memory.
Several distinguished guests graced the event, including Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro and Blue Star Families CEO Kathy Roth-Douquet. For her continued commitment to service members and their families, Roth-Douquet received the Navy Distinguished Public Service Award, an honor bestowed to those who make significant contributions to the Navy.
The night had more surprises in store. Surprising an astonished crowd, Cuban American legend Gloria Estefan took the stage alongside Del Toro and Roth-Douquet. Estefan’s support of the U.S. Armed Forces resulted in recognition as a sponsor of the newly named USS Miami Virginia Class Submarine. An eight-time Grammy Award winner and Presidential Medal of Freedom recipient, Estefan also introduced the night’s headliners, The Wailers.
“Fleet Week Miami is not just an event, but a platform to honor the Navy, Marines, and Coast Guard’s tireless efforts in protecting our nation,” said Roth-Douquet. “The Rock the Fleet event is a testament to the power of community support and collaboration. BSF extends a heartfelt thank you to Emilio Estefan and his team, Gloria and Lili Estefan, The Wailers, Julia Quinn and Citadel, Miami Design District, La Rosa Realty, and CSX. Their instrumental support turned this event into a roaring success.”
About Blue Star Families
Blue Star Families (BSF) is the nation’s largest Chapter-based military and Veteran family support organization. Its research-driven approach builds strong communities with a focus on human-centered design and innovative solutions. Since its founding in 2009, BSF has delivered more than $200 million in benefits and impacts more than 1.5 million people annually. For more information, click here.
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