Senate veterans committee advances Sid Ellington nomination to Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs commission

The Oklahoma Senate Veterans and Military Affairs Committee voted 9-0 to advance the nomination of Sid Ellington to serve another term as a commissioner for the Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs, sending the nomination to the full Senate.

Ellington, who currently holds the seat and is seeking another three-year term, told the committee he wants the agency to place greater emphasis on post–Sept. 11 veterans, including workforce development, education and community engagement to help retain younger veterans in Oklahoma. Senator Hines, who presented the nomination, praised Ellington’s background and military service.

Committee members asked questions and heard brief remarks before Senator Howard moved a "do pass" recommendation, with Senator Peterson seconding. The clerk called the roll; the record shows nine ayes and zero nays. The committee chair then declared the nomination passed by the committee and ordered it to proceed to the full Senate.

Ellington described experience from his first term and his work in the veteran space both in Washington, D.C., and in Oklahoma, saying the department should focus on a generation of veterans who are "digital natives," are diverse in skills and include women who have served in combat roles. He said the agency should complement its continued support for veterans homes and long-term care with programs that target retention through career and community opportunities.

Senator Hines introduced Ellington by noting Ellington’s academic role at the University of Oklahoma and his service as a strategic advisor on the board of the Mark Devine Courage Foundation. Hines also referred to Ellington’s prior service in the Navy SEALs and deployments to the Persian Gulf.

After the vote the chair thanked Ellington and committee members; the nomination will next be considered by the full Oklahoma Senate.