Rushmore State News

U.S. Senators Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) and Angus King (I-Maine) have introduced a bill to rename the Africa Center for Strategic Studies at the National Defense University (NDU) in honor of the late James M. Inhofe, a former Senator from Oklahoma who served for more than 28 years and was chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee. Inhofe was recognized for his engagement with African leaders and citizens through nearly 200 visits to Africa during his tenure.

Senator Rounds stated, "My friend Jim Inhofe was a true ambassador of his state, country and most importantly, Jesus. He always said that his strong and trusted relationships with African leaders came from his strong faith in Jesus. Jim had a deep respect and appreciation for Africa and its people. For over eight years during my membership on the Senate Armed Services Committee, I was privileged to serve with Jim, who served as committee chairman. During this time, we took many trips to Africa to meet with national leaders and a broad array of citizens, developing deep and enduring relationships across the continent. Naming NDU’s Africa Center for Strategic Studies after Jim is a fitting way to honor his memory and recognize his contributions to our national defense and our relationship with the countries of Africa."

Senator King added, "I had the privilege of working with Senator Jim Inhofe on the Senate Armed Services Committee to support military families, our veterans and the men and women serving our country in uniform. During my time with him in the Senate, Jim was a steadfast supporter of Africa’s entrance into the global community, and developed deep, productive relationships across the continent. Jim was a true friend even when we disagreed, and I can’t think of a more fitting tribute than naming National Defense University’s Africa Center after him."

The National Defense University is based in Washington, D.C., focusing on education related to national security strategy for military personnel. The Africa Center for Strategic Studies was established in 1999 as an institution dedicated specifically to analyzing security issues relevant to Africa.

Further details about the proposed legislation can be found by reading the full bill text at HERE.