Jeffrey Hill
Military Branch: Air Force; Rank: Capt
Summary:
Capt Jeff Hill was born in Hartford, CT., and enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1997. He met his wife, Rachael, also an enlisted airman, shortly thereafter and they were married in 1999. They later had two beautiful sons, while stationed at Columbus Air Force Base, Mississippi.
His Air Force career began as an F-15 aircraft maintenance technician for the 12th Fighter Squadron at Elmendorf. Hard work earned him his commission as a second lieutenant in 2002, as well as an assignment to pilot training. After successfully completing pilot training, as the first ROTC cadet from the University of Alaska Det 001 to receive his pilot wings, he was selected as a T-1 instructor pilot, responsible for training the next generation of Air Force pilots. Jeff completed a three-year tour at Columbus AFB, and earned a coveted spot as a C-17 pilot assigned to Elmendorf AFB, Alaska in 2007.
Jeff was an exceptional pilot, and during his C-17 career, he was personally responsible for many missions supporting both Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom. He piloted Elmendorf's first plane in Haiti during the earthquake relief effort in January 2010, bringing critical humanitarian supplies to the region. Jeff also delivered much-needed equipment to aid in the oil spill cleanup effort in the Gulf of Mexico. He accomplished many things in his Air Force career, but what he treasured most was gaining recognition for those who worked for him. Jeff was truly a professional of the highest caliber.
Jeff also had an unparalleled passion for the outdoors. At every opportunity, he was having fun in the mud, in the snow or in the water. He loved to take his wife, his boys and his friends out camping, fishing, snow machining or on a four-wheeler ride. He hiked, explored and took advantage of everything that Alaska and life had to offer. As passionate as he was about the outdoors, he loved being a father and husband most of all. This was evidenced by his excitement in sharing life with his family.
Jeff tackled every day of his life with enthusiasm, a great attitude, a smile and a little witty sarcasm. He was an absolute joy to be around. His personality was infectious and drew people to him. He gave his life in support of his country and he will be greatly missed by his family, friends, co-workers and everyone fortunate enough to know him.