CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis released a statement today following the successful launch of the SpaceX Falcon 9 manned rocket from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Brevard County, Florida. The launch marks the first time in history that a commercial aerospace company has carried humans into Earth's orbit.

CFO Jimmy Patronis said, “Today’s successful launch of the SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket marks a historic moment in the history of our country and the great state of Florida. This launch not only highlights the vast knowledge, ingenuity, and bravery of our nation’s scientists, engineers, and astronauts but it underscores the awesome technological innovations made possible right here in the Sunshine State. We’re living in unprecedented times and this launch shows that Florida is safely open for business and we are ready to relaunch our economy.

“I thank the team at NASA and SpaceX for their hard work while we are facing a pandemic. I believe this launch will provide our state and nation with hope that great things are possible, and our future is incredibly bright.”