The selection of Hawai'i native and former Army Chief of Staff Gen. Eric Shinseki to head the nation's Veterans Affairs department drew praise today from members of the state's congressional delegation.

President-elect Barack Obama is expected to formally announce Shinseki's selection tomorrow.

U.S. Sen. Daniel K. Akaka, D-Hawai'i, chairman of the Veterans' Affairs committee, said:

"President-elect Obama made an excellent choice. I've worked with Eric Shinseki when he was Army chief (of staff) and he worked real well. I will tell you that I respect his judgment and I know he made good judgments when he was chief, and he will make good judgments as secretary of Veterans Affairs."

Akaka knew Shinseki before he was Army chief of staff, and in fact "pinned" Shinseki with the rank of colonel at the Pentagon.

"I think everything's happening for the best interests of the country. Anybody from Hawai'i, and in this case, Gen. Shinseki, will really add to the diversity and reflect our country," Akaka said.

U.S. Sen. Daniel K. Inouye, D-Hawai'i, said:

"President-elect Obama has selected the perfect candidate for the position of Veterans secretary. He (Shinseki) was an extremely dedicated soldier who I had the honor of nominating to West Point so many years ago.

"He served with distinction and was seriously wounded. Shinseki, like many other veterans, will carry his scars to his grave.

"He understands the military and the needs of our veterans. I am honored to support one of Hawai'i's greatest heroes."