This week, U.S. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., named a congressman from the Sunshine State to serve as veterans advisor to the speaker.

McCarthy turned to U.S. Rep. Gus Bilirakis, R-Fla., the longtime vice chairman of the U.S. House Veterans Affairs Committee, to serve in the post.

“Among his most notable accomplishments, Bilirakis has authored legislation signed into law to improve mental health options, strengthen homeless prevention programs and boost educational benefits for Veterans. He has also worked to improve the transition support veterans receive when returning to civilian life and to ensure formal recognition of the damage that toxic exposure has caused our nation’s heroes which has subsequently led to these veterans receiving the benefits to which they are entitled,” the Florida congressman’s office noted.

“I’m proud to appoint Congressman Gus Bilirakis as the veterans advisor to the speaker. Gus will work closely with me to ensure that the voices of those who have served in our military are heard and that Congress puts veterans and their families first. He has already proven to be a tremendous advocate for our nation’s heroes and their families, working to ensure they receive the support and services they deserve, and I’m fortunate to have him on board in this new role,” said McCarthy.

“Throughout my tenure in Congress, I have made it my priority to act as the voice of the men and women who serve our nation,” said Bilirakis. “I’m grateful for this newest opportunity to strengthen that voice and will continue pushing to ensure veterans issues remain at the forefront of the priorities we tackle this Congress.”

Now 60, Bilirakis was first elected to Congress in 2006 after eight years in the Florida House. He currently represents all of Citrus, Hernando, and parts of Pasco Counties in a secure district for Republicans.