For nearly two years, the Veteran Affairs office has been without a permanent general inspector. On Oct. 2, President Obama made the announcement that he had found a candidate worthy of nomination for the position.
According to Star and Stripes, Michael Missal, a partner at the law firm K&L Gates, was the individual who received this nomination. Military Times reported that Missal has lead a number of internal investigations on the government and has been on the senior counsel at the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.
"The president selected Missal because he has a distinguished legal background and a proven record of expertly leading prominent, sensitive and extensive investigations," said a White House official.
This nomination comes at an advantageous time because of the recent scrutiny the VA office has been facing. Missal's role will be to play "watchdog" to the office and ensure the integrity of operations.
Government officials told Military Times that they were pleased with the nomination and were looking forward to leadership and guidance in the VA.
The date for the finalization vote for the nomination has not yet been released.