Defense Secretary Hegseth restructuring plan could impact Fort Sam Houston funding

Under newly appointed Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, the Army could see drastic restructuring, including combining the Army North and Army South Commands that are both based out of Fort Sam Houston, in San Antonio.

The Army restructuring could combine both commands into a new Western Hemisphere Command, which could bring drastic personnel and funding changes to Fort Sam Houston.

“Well, you know, first of all, Army North takes care of homeland issues in the United States, protecting the United States Army South goes into Latin America and the Caribbean, to counter drugs and other work,” said Congressman Henry Cuellar, who represents part of San Antonio.

Congressman Cuellar said Army North and Army South are both based out of Fort Sam Houston but have drastically different purposes.

Combining the two into a Western Hemisphere Command could mean a change of location, bringing cuts to Fort Sam Houston.

“They move it somewhere else, of course, we know that means jobs lost, money that’s pumped into the local economy, families that will be disrupted here, morale will be disrupted,” said Congressman Cuellar.

Congressman Cuellar sits on the appropriations committee that oversees federal funding allocations and says the committee has not been briefed on the proposed changes.

“I will tell you that even Republicans have come out against this, because they’re saying no consultation with Congress, no input from the members of Congress,” said Congressman Cuellar.

We also reached out to Congressman Tony Gonzales, who also represents part of San Antonio. Congressman Gonzales said he will continue to advocate for funding of military baes in San Antonio.

“Generations of servicemembers have earned their stripes supporting America’s fighting forces here in Military City USA. As the House begins to work through our budgets, continuing to deliver for our city and bases is a top priority.”

Congressman Joaquin Castro said, “Joint Base San Antonio is very important to San Antonio’s economy and to many of my constituents. I am working alongside city leaders to ensure that San Antonio is not impacted by the chaotic actions of the Trump Administration, which make us less safe and secure.”

Congressman Cuellar said he will fight to have the new Western Hemisphere Command based out of Fort Sam Houston with the least amount of disruption.