Eric Shinseki, born on November 28, 1942, is a former United States Secretary of Veterans Affairs. He has a rich background in military and public service, having served in the United States Army and holding significant positions during the Vietnam War. During his tenure as Secretary of Veterans Affairs from 2009 to 2014, Shinseki was committed to improving the welfare and services for veterans, pushing for a series of reform measures to enhance the medical care and benefits of veterans.