Panthers owner Viola named army secretary
SUNRISE, FLA. U.S. president-elect Donald Trump chose Florida Panthers owner Vincent Viola on Monday to serve as army secretary.
Viola, a 1977 West Point graduate who bought the Panthers in 2013, will need to be confirmed by the Senate. If that happens, then — pending NHL approval — ownership of the Panthers would remain in the Viola family and his roles as chairman and governor of the club would be filled by Doug Cifu.
He would become the U.S. army’s top civilian official.
“It is an honour to be nominated to serve our country,” Viola said.
Trump called Viola “an incredibly accomplished and selfless individual.”
“He is a man of outstanding work ethic, integrity, and strategic vision, with an exceptional ability to motivate others,” Trump added.
Viola’s army ties run deep and have carried over into his time leading the Panthers. The team has held training camps at the U.S. military academy, known as West Point, and played exhibition games there. Several West Point graduates and military veterans work in the front office.
“Our hockey team has always been proud to be part of Mr. Viola’s legacy,” Panthers president of hockey operations Dale Tallon said. “We admire his dedication to his country and are excited to watch him pursue this new endeavour.”
Trump, in announcing Viola as his pick, said he was “living proof of the American dream.”
Viola’s father served in the army during the Second World War. Viola became the first member of his family to attend college, served in the 101st Airborne Division, then was part of the U.S. army reserve after his active duty.
Viola is also a graduate of New York Law School, has long been involved with philanthropic projects and is a past winner of the Ellis Island Medal of Honor.
“We could not be more proud for Vinnie and his dedication to our country,” Panthers president and CEO Matthew Caldwell said.