U.S. Senator Mike Rounds introduced Dr. Troy Meink at a Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC) hearing. Dr. Meink, a native of Lemmon, South Dakota and an alumnus of South Dakota State University, has been nominated by President Trump for the position of Secretary of the Air Force.
“It is my honor to introduce Dr. Troy Meink, nominee to be Secretary of the Air Force,” Rounds stated. He added that Meink is “imminently qualified for” the position due to his extensive experience in national security.
Senator Rounds emphasized Dr. Meink’s diverse background in key roles within the Air Force and the National Reconnaissance Office. “His senior roles… including as Deputy Under Secretary of the Air Force for Space, have prepared him for this assignment,” Rounds elaborated.
After the hearing, the SASC plans to schedule a business meeting to vote on Dr. Meink’s nomination. Following committee approval, the nomination will proceed to a full Senate vote.
In his introduction, Senator Rounds shared details about Dr. Meink’s personal and professional journey, noting his achievements since his time at SDSU. Dr. Meink built and flew his aircraft, which is exhibited at the South Dakota Discovery Center. He also contributed to education by leading high school robotics teams to success against international opponents.
Rounds urged support for Dr. Meink, highlighting his potential contribution to the Air and Space Forces.
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