*EPF210 01/02/01
Bush Names Anthony J. Principi to Head Veterans Affairs
(Spent his life improving lives of fellow veterans) (370)
By Mary Ann Gamble
Washington File Staff Writer

Washington -- President-elect George W. Bush has selected Anthony J. Principi as secretary of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Principi, president of QTC Medical Services, Inc., since 1999, has extensive experience with Veterans Affairs having served as the agency's deputy secretary from 1989-1992 and acting secretary from 1992-1993. In 1996, Principi chaired the Congressional Commission on Military Service members and Veteran's Transition Assistance, which reviewed the adequacy and effectiveness of the services and benefits available to active duty service members and veterans. Principi has also served as the Republican chief counsel and staff director for the U.S. Senate Committee on Armed Services and the Committee on Veterans Affairs.

In announcing his selection, Bush described Principi as "a highly decorated Vietnam veteran." He summarized his public service record, stating that "Tony Principi has spent much of his life working to improve the lives of his fellow veterans, and he will do an excellent job in ensuring that our nation's veterans get the care, treatment and respect they so richly deserve."

When advised of the nomination, Principi said, "I am proud to respond to that call just as those veterans responded as their country called upon them." A 1967 graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy, Principi served in the Navy for many years, advancing to the grade of commander. He was awarded the Bronze Star with combat "V," the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry and the Navy Commendation Medal with Combat "V." He also received a Meritorious Service Medal from the VA in 1983.

Principi earned a law degree from Seton Hall University in 1975. He was a partner in the law firm of Luce, Forward, Hamilton & Scripps before becoming senior vice president and chief operating officer of Lockheed Martin IMS Integrated Solutions in 1995. QTC Medical Services is a group of professional service companies providing independent medical examinations and medical administration nationally.

Born in New York City in 1944, he and his wife, Elizabeth Ann, live in Rancho Santa Fe, California. They have three children.

(The Washington File is a product of the Office of International Information Programs, U.S. Department of State. Web site: http://usinfo.state.gov)
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