PHOTO: Ernst meets with Nominee for Secretary of the Army, Vincent Viola

WASHINGTON, D.C. –  U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA), a combat veteran and member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, today met with President-elect Trump's nominee for Secretary of the Army, Vincent Viola, a former U.S. Army infantry officer.

Following the meeting, Senator Ernst issued this statement:

“Mr. Viola’s military experience allows for an invaluable foundation and an understanding of the needs of our soldiers defending our freedoms across the globe.

“I took the opportunity to talk with Mr. Viola about how he intends to seek out ways to better leverage our forces and ensure soldiers have the best equipment possible. I made sure he is aware of the unique capabilities in the National Guard that could be better utilized in our nation’s defense. With threats growing across the world, we must ensure we are leveraging our forces wisely and efficiently. Our soldiers deserve the best equipment in a cost effective and timely manner in order to achieve our mission and return home safely.

“As a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, I look forward to continuing the discussion of these priorities and more while thoroughly vetting Mr. Viola for this position.”

Senator Joni Ernst meets with Mr. Vincent Viola.

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