Gov. Ned Lamont announced Friday that he is nominating retired U.S. Army Brigadier General Ronald “Ron” Welch of Waterford to serve as commissioner of the state Department of Veterans Affairs.

Since his retirement in 2017, Welch has been working for a local nonprofit organization that connects Connecticut veterans, active-duty service members, National Guard, Reserve and their families with the programs and services they need to assist with daily life challenges.

“General Welch knows firsthand what it means to serve our nation in numerous capacities, what it’s like being away from family and loved ones for an extended period … and what’s like returning to civilian life and handling the challenges that come with stepping away from service,” Lamont said. “He is immensely qualified to lead the Connecticut Department of Veterans Affairs, and I am grateful that he has agreed to continue his many years of public service by accepting this position.”

Welch enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1978, and served on active duty with the 2nd Ranger Battalion of the 75th Ranger Regiment at Fort Lewis, Wash. During his active-duty service, he attained the rank of sergeant. On May 4, 1981, he sustained serious injuries during a parachute accident. He left active service on Oct. 2, 1982.

Welch succeeds Tom Saadi.