DBT40 Honoree: Jerome Rogers

Title: Squadron Commander

Workplace: Delaware Air National Guard

Age: 39

Jerome Rogers | DBT PHOTO BY LUIGI CIUFFETELLI

Jerome Rogers is a man of two worlds: civilian and military life.

After receiving an aeronautical science degree from Dowling College-Long Island, the New York native received his commission in the U.S. Air Force and was assigned to the Dover Air Force Base. He completed his tour in the state capital while also working on an MBA from Wilmington University – and then later took the supervisor role at the Invista nylon plant in Seaford.

Years later, he returned to service. His tours included Iraq, Afghanistan and in southwest Asia, where he ensured readiness of all personnel and aircraft for mobilization demands of two military operations. Between those tours, he returned to Dover to work as a manager in KraftHeinz – only to be called again to military service.

Between 2014 and 2017, Rogers led operations and training for 316 aircraft technicians and was responsible for preparing 32 KC-10 aircrafts.

After that mission, Rogers was requested personally to the Delaware Air National Guard. Today, he commands the largest aircraft maintenance squadron of 110 personnel as well as repair and reliability of eight C-130H aircraft. Rogers also helps President Joe Biden’s safe transportation to and from the New Castle Airfield, along with Secret Service and Air Force One.