Gov. Rick Perry has appointed William "Bill" Heine III of Austin to the Texas Military Preparedness Commission. The commission advises the governor and legislature on defense-related issues, prepares an annual report for state leaders, and helps base commanders prepare for the next round of base realignment evaluations.

Heine is CEO and president of American Constructors. He is a member of the National Academy of Construction, Naval War College Foundation, U.S. Navy League, U.S. Naval Academy Foundation, and U.S. Naval Academy Alumni Association. He is also chair of the Austin Boys and Girls Club Foundation, a past board member and past president of the Austin Boys and Girls Club, and a past board member of the Seabee Historical Foundation and Capital Area United Way. Heine served as a rear admiral in the U.S. Navy/Seabees. He received a bachelor's degree from the U.S. Naval Academy and a master's degree in civil engineering from Purdue University. He is appointed for a term to expire Feb. 1, 2013.