August Pfluger Retires from U.S. Air Force After 25 Years

WASHINGTON, DC — Congressman August Pfluger retired as a Colonel in the U.S. Air Force on Feb. 1, 2026, after more than 25 years of service. 

Pfluger's retirement ceremony was held at the White House on March 6, 2026. The Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Dan "Razin" Caine, presided over the ceremony, and President Trump also personally congratulated Colonel Pfluger and his family in the Oval Office prior to the ceremony.

Pfluger released the following statement on his retirement: 

"I retired as a Colonel from the United States Air Force on February 1, 2026, following over 25 years of service to our great nation. 

"After graduating from the U.S. Air Force Academy in 2000, I spent the next two decades flying the F-15C and F-22 Raptor in many locations, including several combat missions in the Middle East. It was an immense honor to fly the world's finest aircraft and a privilege of a lifetime to defend the freedoms we cherish. In 2019, I joined the Air Force Reserve and proudly served in this capacity until my retirement this year. 

"While my time in uniform has come to a close, my commitment to our military and national security remains as strong as ever. I will continue serving our brave men and women in uniform as one of the 17 Air Force veterans currently in Congress. I will also continue to serve as Chairman of the U.S. Air Force Academy Board of Visitors, where I remain focused on strengthening the Academy and developing the next generation of American leaders.

"None of this would have been possible without the unwavering support from my wife, Camille, and our three daughters. Their love and sacrifice made my service possible, and I am immensely grateful for them every single day.  

"I also want to thank the people of Texas's 11th Congressional District. It is an honor to represent a community that so deeply understands the cost of service and the value of sacrifice. Thank you for trusting me to represent you in Washington. It remains one of the greatest honors of my life."