SMSgt (Ret.) Jason Hemphill has served as an Air Force Junior ROTC instructor at Perry High School since 2025. He retired from the United States Air Force in 2025 after a distinguished 21-year career, having enlisted in 2004.

Throughout his career, SMSgt Hemphill held a wide range of leadership and technical positions, including C-130 crew chief on AC-130U Gunships, maintenance instructor, Combat Aviation Advisor with the 6th Special Operations Squadron, C-130 Weapons System Manager, and Deputy Branch Chief for C-130 sustainment and logistics. His assignments took him around the world, including Elmendorf AFB, Alaska; Hurlburt Field, Florida; Yokota Air Base, Japan; Scott AFB, Illinois; and Robins AFB, Georgia. He deployed multiple times in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom.

Originally from Marion, North Carolina, SMSgt Hemphill is married to his wife, Nikki, and they have two children, Bryce and Silas. He is passionate about mentoring young people, developing leadership skills, and preparing students for success in both military and civilian careers. Outside the classroom, he enjoys playing music, fishing, and staying active in his local church.