Military Coalition Applauds Golden Dome Missile Defense Initiative

by CME Press Room | Published April 27, 2025

The Coalition for Military Excellence (CME), alongside leaders from the Vandenberg Coalition and other key national security voices, released a statement in support of President Donald Trump’s and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s announcement of the "Golden Dome" missile defense initiative. The historic unveiling of the next-generation missile shield marks a bold step forward in protecting American lives and defending against 21st-century threats.

The Golden Dome initiative, as outlined by the Trump administration and the Department of Defense, promises to establish an unparalleled space-based missile defense architecture to detect, track, and intercept hostile projectiles using a fleet of advanced satellites. The $25 billion budget allocation for 2026 reflects a strong commitment to restoring American deterrence and national defense capability in an increasingly dangerous global environment.

Coalition Partners state the following:

Amber Smith, CME Military Liaison:

“As a combat veteran and defense policy advisor, I know firsthand the importance of technological superiority in warfare. The Golden Dome is a much-needed investment that recognizes the new frontiers of modern combat. By integrating layered defense from space, we send a clear message: America will not be caught off guard. This system will protect our warfighters, our families, and the homeland, and I applaud President Trump for his unwavering leadership and prioritizing this initiative.”

Jay Collins, Florida State Senator & Army Special Forces Veteran:

“Having served with brave men and women who put everything on the line for our country, I deeply understand what’s at stake. The Golden Dome initiative is more than just defense spending—it’s a commitment to defending the American people from the unthinkable. We must remain vigilant, prepared, and always one step ahead of our adversaries. This is a strategic and moral imperative, and I proudly support this monumental effort.”

Harrison Floyd, U.S. Marine Corps Veteran & CivicForge Founder:

“As a Marine who deployed to defend this country and now works to empower veterans, I support the Golden Dome because it represents not only strength but foresight. In a time when missile threats from adversaries are becoming more advanced and unpredictable, this initiative gives us the upper hand. It honors the sacrifices of our service members by ensuring their mission is not in vain and that the homeland remains secure.”

Rebeccah Heinrichs, Advisory Board, Vandenberg Coalition, and senior fellow at Hudson Institute:

"We are long past time to get serious about robust homeland defense. Decades after the Cold War the United States has diverse and growing threats from various adversaries with drones, cruise missiles, and ballistic missiles. A layered architecture including a space-based kill capability will provide needed defense of the U.S., will convince China and Russia that they cannot coerce us by threatening a limited strike, and should give allies added confidence that we would come to their defense because we are more secured."

The Coalition for Military Excellence (CME) is a national organization dedicated to advocating for veterans and military excellence in the U.S. armed forces. CME is committed to combating policies and practices that undermine military excellence and threaten veteran support services. CME’s mission is to ensure the United States military remains focused on our nation's security through merit, strength, and excellence, while advocating for veteran rights, benefits, and resources.

###

CME has a roster of experienced, veteran and military surrogates available for comment or interview. If you're interested in getting their unique perspectives for your coverage, please email inquiries@militaryexcellence.org.