Congressman Patronis Bolsters Military and Veterans Team with Director Appointment
May 28, 2026
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Jimmy Patronis (R-FL) announced the appointment of Dustin Retherford as Director of Military and Veterans Affairs within Florida’s First Congressional District.
- “I’m proud to welcome Dustin to the team,” said Congressman Patronis. “Northwest Florida has a tremendous footprint when it comes to military bases and our veterans so having skilled personnel that know how to navigate the system, but also understand how money flows from Washington into supporting our military will be critical for growing the footprints and cutting more job opportunities and supporting readiness for military operations around America.”
Mayor D.C. Reeves of Pensacola said, “Dustin will be an incredible asset to veterans across our region. To have an advocate for our city in this vital position is a win for Pensacola. I look forward to continuing our work side by side with Congressman Patronis to make our community the absolute best in the nation for veteran quality of life.”
Retherford, a native of the Florida Panhandle and resident of Santa Rosa County, brings a career defined by service and leadership. He earned his master’s degree from the University of West Florida and his bachelor’s degree from Mississippi College.
A former U.S. Army Company Commander and Ranger-qualified officer, Retherford also brings extensive experience in federal legislative affairs. Most recently, he served as a Policy and Legislative Affairs Officer for the City of Pensacola, where he acted as the primary liaison between the City and the Florida Legislature, building strategic partnerships with lawmakers, staff, and state agencies.
- As Director of Military and Veterans Affairs, Retherford will work alongside Military and VA Liaison James Zumwalt, a Navy Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) combat veteran and national security expert with experience serving at the Pentagon and on Capitol Hill. In his role, Retherford will lead efforts on military, veterans, and defense priorities while coordinating engagement with key stakeholders across the defense community.