Trump to Nominate Florida Panthers Owner Vincent Viola for Army Secretary

— -- President-elect Donald Trump says he plans to nominate West Point graduate, businessman and Florida Panthers owner Vincent Viola for secretary of the Army.

Viola, founder of Virtu Financial and former chair of the New York Mercantile Exchange, is just the latest in a string of powerful businessmen Trump has tapped to serve in top staff or administration positions.

Viola is a West Point graduate and U.S. Army veteran, and following the 9/11 terrorist attacks helped found the Combating Terrorism Center at West Point, according to the Trump transition team.

“I am proud to have such an incredibly accomplished and selfless individual as Vincent Viola as our Secretary of the Army,” Trump said in the announcement. “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."

Viola will have to be confirmed by the Senate to serve in the civilian post.