Gov. Rhoden picks Wentworth native to lead South Dakota Department of Veteran Affairs
Standout chief petty officer takes reins of agency after predecessor's November retirement
Gov. Larry Rhoden has appointed Senior Chief Jeremiah Schneider as the new Secretary of Veteran Affairs, the governor’s office announced Tuesday.
“Senior Chief Jeremiah Schneider is a hard-working professional with strong leadership skills,” Rhoden said. “He has served his country wholeheartedly for many years, and I am confident that he will work diligently with me to keep South Dakota strong, safe, and free.”
Schneider, a Wentworth native, enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1995 after turning down a baseball scholarship to serve his country. He currently serves as the Deputy Senior Enlisted Leader for Expeditionary Medical Facility Camp Pendleton and is the CEO of Bethel Lutheran Home.
Schneider succeeds Sec. Greg Whitlock, who retired from the post in November, will assume the role on March 6.
“I want to thank Governor Larry Rhoden for the honor of nominating me as the Secretary of the Department of Veterans Affairs,” Schneider said. “I will approach this position with the same determination, vigor, and love of country that I have in my naval and civilian careers. I have been and will continue to be an advocate for the state of South Dakota, our governor, and our veterans.”
Schneider’s military honors include the Navy Achievement Medal, Navy and Marine Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, and Joint Service Commendation Medal. He is also Seabee Combat Warfare qualified.
Schneider lives in southeastern South Dakota with his wife and four children.
Seems like a good man, but by the time King Donald is done with the VA, he’ll have precious few benefits to parse out. The “salad” on his chest reflects dedicated service—interestingly enough, it’s more impressive than that of the Secretary of Defense Pete “give me another cocktail with that lap dance” Hegseth.
Congratulations and good luck to Secretary Schneider. Was fortunate to have served in the SD Guards with former Secretary Whitlock and always enjoyed visiting with him, from time to time, along with Colonel Harding, who I also served with. Those were the days.