Jon Grant Shaffer
Jon Grant Shaffer
Years of Service:
12
Highest Rank:
O-3
Medals & Awards:
Air Force Commendation Medal 1
Career Highlights:
CAPTAIN JON GRANT SHAFFER
U.S. Air Force Academy Class of 1959
Jon Grant Shaffer, originally hailing from Lebanon, Ohio, earned a Presidential appointment to attend the United States Air Force Academy. Assigned to Cadet Squadron 2, Jon spent his cadet years developing his leadership and aeronautical foundations, culminating in his graduation with the historic USAFA Class of 1959.
MILITARY CAREER & SPECIALTIES
Upon earning his commission as a Second Lieutenant in 1959, Captain Shaffer embarked on a 12-year active-duty military career. He completed Primary Pilot Training across Moore Air Base and Craig Air Force Base, followed by Advanced Pilot Training at Randolph Air Force Base.
During his operational assignments, Jon served as a pilot with the 97th Air Refueling Squadron at Malmstrom Air Force Base from 1961 to 1962. He subsequently transitioned to strategic bomber operations, flying the B-52 Stratofortress with the 42nd Bombardment Squadron at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base until 1967. For his meritorious service and operational performance, he was awarded the Air Force Commendation Medal.
COMMERCIAL AVIATION & CIVILIAN LIFE
Following his active-duty service, Jon transitioned to commercial aviation. From 1976 through 2009, he built a distinguished 33-year career with United Airlines operating out of San Francisco International Airport (SFO). During his tenure with United, he served as a Captain on the Boeing 727, Flight Manager, and Flight Supervisor.
Jon eventually settled in California, maintaining active ties with his USAFA classmates and participating in local pilot alumni gatherings through the Retired United Pilots Association (RUPA).
EDUCATION
• B.S., United States Air Force Academy (1959)
• Primary Pilot Training, Moore AB / Craig AFB (1959–1960)
• Advanced Pilot Training, Randolph AFB (1959–1961)
MEDALS
• Air Force Commendation Medal
SERVICE ASSIGNMENTS
• 1959–1960: Student Pilot, Moore AB & Craig AFB
• 1959–1961: Student Pilot, Randolph AFB
• 1961–1962: Pilot, 97th Air Refueling Squadron, Malmstrom AFB
• 1962–1967: B-52 Pilot, 42nd Bombardment Squadron, Wright-Patterson AFB
• 1976–2009: Pilot / Flight Manager / Supervisor / Captain (B-727), United Airlines, San Francisco International Airport
