Celebrating service: The flight path of Tony Moore

LEXINGTON PARK, Md. – Tony Moore’s life reads like a master class in adventure, service and leadership. His journey has taken him from the high-stakes cockpit of an F-14 Tomcat to a civilian career dedicated to protecting those who fly. Whether executing a tense landing on an aircraft carrier in the Persian Gulf or building businesses from the ground up, Moore approaches every challenge with purpose. Today, as a Senior Program Analyst at StraCon, he applies his experience to help ensure the safety of warfighters worldwide.

Growing up in a small South Carolina town, Moore learned the value of service early. His father, a retired Army major and former mayor, set an example of leadership and dedication. After graduating from The Citadel, Moore began his military career with flight training in Pensacola, Florida, where he earned his wings as a naval flight officer.

He later served as a Radar Intercept Officer in the F-14 Tomcat, completing more than 300 carrier landings – a feat that tested his limits and sharpened his skills. His time aboard the USS Ranger proved both exhilarating and formative.

*An F-14A Tomcat prepares to make a routine training mission run at Twenty Nine Palms Marine Corps Station. (U.S. Navy photo by 1st Class Mahlon K. Miller)*

“Landing on an aircraft carrier is controlled chaos,” Moore said. “It teaches you to adapt, stay calm and focus on the mission.”

After nine years of active duty, Moore transitioned to civilian life. He launched and ran two businesses before returning to the defense sector in 2010, drawn back by his passion for aviation. Today, he supports the development of tactical protection systems designed to defend aircrews in hostile environments. Working with engineers, program managers and fleet representatives, he helps ensure new technologies meet the real-world needs of military aviators.

*A U.S. Marine Corps AH-1W Super Cobra fires flares during an offensive air support exercise. (U.S. Marine Corps photograph by SSgt. Artur Shvartsberg)*

Moore’s background provides a unique perspective. He understands the pressures warfighters face and helps bridge the gap between those developing defense systems and those who rely on them.

“Having been in the cockpit, I know what aviators need to stay safe and effective,” he said. “Our mission is about more than protecting aircraft. With every system we build, we’re protecting lives.”

In recognition of Military Appreciation Month, we celebrate veterans like Tony Moore who continue to make a difference long after their military service. Moore’s story reflects resilience, adaptability and a continued commitment to service. He remains focused on supporting those on the front lines and ready for what comes next.