Dear Friend, 

On November 29^th, off the coast of Yakushima, Japan, eight U.S. Air Force crew members lost their lives during a training mission when their CV-22 Osprey aircraft crashed into the ocean. Among the servicemembers killed in the accident was 32-year-old, Major Jeffrey Hoernemann, of Andover, Minnesota.

Congressman Emmer honors U.S. Air Force Major Jeff Hoernemann on the House Floor

After graduating with a degree in mechanical engineering from North Dakota State University and receiving his commission through their Reserve Officer Training Corps program, Jeff served as a CV-22 Instructor Pilot and Chief of Weapons and Tactics assigned to the 21^st Special Operations Squadron, 353^rd Special Operations Wing, Yokota Air Base, Japan. Earlier this week, I spoke on the floor of the House of Representatives in honor of Major Hoernemann.

While assigned to the Air Force Special Operations Command, Jeff was deployed multiple times in support of Operation Freedom Sentinel and as Chief of Weapons and Tactics and as a CV-22 Instructor Pilot, he served as his unit’s expert on CV-22B tactics and techniques.

Jeff dedicated his life to service and made the ultimate sacrifice. Across the city of Andover, Sixth Congressional District and the state of Minnesota, we resolve to honor his life and preserve his memory. Our prayers are with Jeff’s wife, Jess; his parents, Thomas and Catherine; and his brother, Jared during this difficult time.

Sincerely,