Maj. Jeffrey T. Hoernemann

U.S. Air Force Maj. Jeffrey “Jeff” T. Hoernemann, 32, was a native of Andover, Minnesota. He received his commission through the North Dakota State University Reserve Officer Training Corps program and entered active duty on March 1, 2015. He was a CV-22 Instructor Pilot and Chief of Weapons and Tactics assigned to the 21st Special Operations Squadron, 353rd Special Operations Wing, Yokota Air Base, Japan.                                                                        

Jeff graduated with a Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering from North Dakota State University in 2014. He completed Undergraduate Pilot Training at Columbus Air Force Base, Mississippi, and became a CV-22 pilot at the 8th Special Operations Squadron at Hurlburt Field, Florida. His passion for and competence in the aircraft culminated in his application, subsequent acceptance, and eventual graduation from the Air Force Weapons Instructor Course. Before his assignment at Yokota Air Base, Jeff was assigned to the 1st Special Operations Wing at Hurlburt Field.

As Chief of Weapons and Tactics and as a CV-22 Instructor Pilot, Jeff was the unit’s subject matter expert on CV-22B employment and shouldered the responsibility for developing new tactics, techniques, and procedures.

While assigned to Air Force Special Operations Command, Jeff deployed multiple times to support Operation FREEDOM SENTINEL.

“Jeff was a beloved husband, brother, and son, as well as an outstanding pilot and instructor,” said U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Tyler Oldham, 21st Special Operations Squadron commander. “Jeff was a true leader, SOF warrior and patriot. His character was the benchmark of officership in the United States Air Force. Jeff was the best of us. His selflessness and leadership, through example, have left enduring marks on the culture and values of the members of Air Force Special Operations Command.”

During his career, Jeff was recognized with Meritorious Service Medal, Air Medal with “C” Device, Aerial Achievement Medal, Air and Space Commendation Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster, Air and Space Achievement Medal, Meritorious Unit Award, Combat Readiness Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with Bronze Star and Global War on Terrorism Service Medal.