Donald Trump picks NHL team owner to oversee US military

donald trump nhl owner vinnie viola

On Monday, US President elect Donald Trump picked Florida Panthers owner Vinnie Viola to be the Secretary of the Army, a position which oversees the army. Viola is a New York billionaire and former infantry officer.

Trump had this to say about his nomination:

I am proud to have such an incredibly accomplished and selfless individual as Vincent Viola as our Secretary of the Army. Whether it is his distinguished military service or highly impressive track record in the world of business, Vinnie has proved throughout his life that he knows how to be a leader and deliver major results in the face of any challenge. He is a man of outstanding work ethic, integrity, and strategic vision, with an exceptional ability to motivate others. The American people, whether civilian or military, should have great confidence that Vinnie Viola has what it takes to keep America safe and oversee issues of concern to our troops in the Army.

Viola responded to Trump's nomination:

It is an honor to be nominated to serve our country as President-elect Trump’s Secretary of the Army. If confirmed, I will work tirelessly to provide our President with the land force he will need to accomplish any mission in support of his National Defense Strategy. A primary focus of my leadership will be ensuring that America’s soldiers have the ways and means to fight and win across the full spectrum of conflict. This great honor comes with great responsibility, and I will fight for the American people and their right to live free every day.

From all accounts, Vinnie is a hands on owner of the Florida Panthers. It will be interesting to see how this will impact the Panthers.