PRESS RELEASE
Following a comprehensive national search, Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum has named retired U.S. Navy aviator John P. Hiltz as its first Chief Executive Officer. Hiltz brings nearly 23 years of distinguished military service, having flown the F/A-18 Super Hornet in multiple combat deployments and served with the Blue Angels from 2012 to 2014. Notably, the museum’s own Blue Angels F/A-18 Hornet was among the aircraft he piloted during airshows.
A University of Notre Dame graduate, Hiltz held key leadership roles throughout his Navy career, including instructor pilot, commanding officer for Navy recruiting in the Pacific Northwest, and director of hypersonic and cruise missile strategy in the Indo-Pacific. Now a Hawaii resident, he lives in Kailua with his wife and two daughters. General Raymond Johns (USAF Ret.), Chairman of the Board, praised Hiltz as “a proven leader with a deep passion for aviation” and emphasized his alignment with the museum’s mission.
As CEO, Hiltz will oversee daily operations, strategic initiatives, exhibit and education development, and the museum’s long-term vision. He expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “It’s an honor to help preserve and share the stories of courage and innovation that shaped our history.” This appointment marks a new chapter for the museum as it strengthens its role in preserving WWII aviation heritage and inspiring future generations.
About Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum Located on Historic Ford Island, the museum sits at the heart of the site where the December 7, 1941, attack began. Its mission is to steward America’s WWII aviation battlefield and educate the public through immersive exhibits and educational outreach. Learn more or support the museum at: www.PearlHarborAviationMuseum.org
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Born in Milan, Italy, Moreno moved to the U.S. in 1999 to pursue a career as a commercial pilot. His aviation passion began early, inspired by his uncle, an F-104 Starfighter Crew Chief, and his father, a military traffic controller. Childhood adventures included camping outside military bases and watching planes at Aeroporto Linate. In 1999, he relocated to Atlanta, Georgia, to obtain his commercial pilot license, a move that became permanent. With 24 years in the U.S., he now flies full-time for a Part 91 business aviation company in Atlanta. He is actively involved with the Commemorative Air Force, the D-Day Squadron, and other aviation organizations. He enjoys life with his supportive wife and three wonderful children.
