14-year Alaska resident Robert Doehl was named as Senator Mark Begich's new special assistant for military and veterans affairs on Thursday.

Doehl replaces C.W. Floyd, who after eight years, is retiring from Begich’s staff. Floyd worked on Begich’s staff since he was mayor of Anchorage and continued on when Begich won his senate seat.

Doehl just recently retired with the rank of Colonel from the Alaska National Guard. He last served as the vice wing commander of the 176th wing of the Alaska Air National Guard. Spending 32 years in the Guard, Doehl first enlisted as a medic before being commissioned as an officer.

During his career, Doehl completed military pilot training; transferred to the Air Force; served in the active, reserve and National Guard components; and commanded six different units. In 2003, Doehl deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. In 2006 and 2007, Doehl played a key role in designing the organizational structure for the consolidation of Elmendorf Air Force Base and Fort Richardson. Since 2008, a substantial portion of his work has involved ensuring care and benefits are available for Airmen injured in the line of duty.

Doehl’s career past also includes time as a trial attorney for the U.S. Department of Justice and was also an Assistant Attorney General for the state of Alaska.

In his new position on the senator’s staff, Doehl will be responsible for dealing directly with the military and veterans community as well as outreach and planning with active military forces.