LCDR John Hiltz

John Hiltz grew up in Fort Mitchell, KY, and graduated as salutatorian from Covington Catholic High School in 1998, where he also lettered in basketball. He went on to play basketball at the University of Notre Dame and graduated Cum Laude in 2002 with a degree in Civil Engineering. That same year, he earned his commission through the Naval ROTC program.

John began his aviation career at NAS Pensacola before moving through flight training in Texas and Mississippi, earning his wings of gold in 2005. He trained in the F/A-18 Super Hornet with VFA-122 at NAS Lemoore, then joined VFA-154, the “Black Knights,” where he served in multiple leadership roles and deployed twice aboard USS John C. Stennis in support of Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. His time there also included major international exercises like Valiant Shield, Foal Eagle, and Northern Edge.

In 2009, John transitioned to the F/A-18 Hornet with VMFAT-101, the “Sharpshooters,” at MCAS Miramar. As an instructor pilot, he trained the next generation of aviators while serving in several key roles, including FAC-A and Landing Signals Officer.

In 2011, John joined the U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron—the Blue Angels—flying the Right Wing position in the 2012 and 2013 seasons. Over his career, he has logged more than 2,300 flight hours and 320 carrier arrested landings.

John brings a dynamic blend of leadership and expertise to the public speaking arena. As a Navy fighter pilot and right wingman of the US Navy Blue Angels, he ripped through the skies in the F/A-18, both in training and combat. With experience leading Navy recruitment in the Pacific Northwest and serving as Chief of Staff for a classified strategic unit in the Pacific region, John’s insights transcend boundaries, inspiring audiences with tales of precision, teamwork, and relentless pursuit of excellence.

His decorations include a Strike Flight Air Medal, three Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals, along with numerous personal and unit commendations.

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