Gov. Ron DeSantis on Sept. 8 announced the appointment of James Scholl, a Monroe County commissioner and former commander of Naval Air Station Key West, to the Florida Defense Support Task Force.
The task force, created by Florida Statute, aims to preserve, protect and enhance Florida’s military missions and installations.
In addition to Scholl, DeSantis appointed Jamal Sowell and Don Quinn and reappointed Steven “Reeves” Valentine.
Scholl, a veteran of the United States Navy, is the recipient of the Legion of Merit, a Defense Meritorious Service Medal, three Meritorious Services Medals, and two Navy Commendation Medals, one with combat distinguishing device for valor. He is a member of the Key West Military Affairs Committee. Scholl earned a bachelor’s degree in zoology from Miami University and a master’s degree in national security and strategic studies from the Navy War College.
Sowell is the president of business solutions for Indelible Solutions. He is a veteran of the United States Marine Corps and currently serves in the United States Navy Reserve. Sowell was a Florida secretary of commerce and chief executive officer of Enterprise Florida. He is a resident member of the Florida Council of 100 and serves on the University of Florida Alumni Association board of directors. Sowell earned a bachelor’s degree in religion from the University of Florida, a master’s degree in education from the University of Massachusetts and a law degree from Indiana University.
Quinn is a consultant on manpower, talent management, training and education issues in Pensacola. He is a veteran of the Navy, retiring with the rank of rear admiral. He is a recipient of the Distinguished Services Medal, the Distinguished Flying Cross and the Bronze Star. Quinn earned a bachelor’s degree in oceanography from the United States Naval Academy, a master’s degree in general management from Salve Regina University and a master’s degree in military strategic studies from the United States Naval War College.
Valentine is the vice president of land and maritime solutions for Lockheed Martin. He is a veteran of the United States Army and was recognized by the Orlando Business Journal as a Veteran of Influence in 2021. He previously was a member of Enterprise Florida’s executive committee. Valentine earned a bachelor’s degree in general management from the United States Military Academy at West Point and a master’s degree in business administration from Northwestern University.
