TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- Just days before his retirement, Yukon Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Jason Simeroth traded his office chair for the cockpit of an F-16 Fighting Falcon.
On Friday, June 27, Simeroth was hand-picked by the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds to participate in a once-in-a-lifetime flight as part of the Thunderbirds Hometown Hero program—an initiative that honors extraordinary individuals who positively impact their communities.
For the last 11 years, Simeroth has been a transformative figure in the Yukon school district and beyond—regularly championing for ways to improve the lives of all who are around him.
“Dr. Simeroth exemplifies the very spirit of warrior ethos – selfless service, dedication to excellence, and an unwavering commitment to shaping the next generation,” said Col. Cisco Harris, installation commander of Tinker Air Force Base. “Just as Tinker invests in developing resilient Airmen, Simeroth has spent his career developing future leaders through education.”
During the high-speed flight over Oklahoma, Simeroth experienced the full force of air power, pulling 9.1 G’s. He officially retired from the district on Monday, June 30.