First Lieutenant Emma J. McHenry is the Public Affairs Advisor for the F-35A Lightning II Demonstration Team, 388th Fighter Wing, Hill Air Force Base, Utah. She directs a team responsible for communicating the F-35A mission to a global audience and supporting the Air Force's strategic messaging regarding its newest multi-role fighter jet. Her leadership encompasses media relations, social media management, community engagement and recruiting efforts. She ensures the team effectively highlights the F-35A's capabilities, promotes Air Force innovation and honors Air Force heritage through precision flight demonstrations.
1st Lt. McHenry received her commission from the United States Air Force Academy in 2022 after earning a degree in Social Sciences. She entered the Air Force as a Remotely Piloted Aircraft trainee before electing to re-train into Public Affairs. She has served as a Public Affairs Officer at both the wing and installation level, including an assignment at the Department of War's largest joint base. Prior to her current position, 1st Lt. McHenry was the Deputy Director of Public Affairs, Joint Base San Antonio and 502d Air Base Wing, JBSA-Fort Sam Houston, Texas.
EDUCATION:
2022 Bachelor of Science, Social Sciences, United States Air Force Academy, Colo.
2023 Public Affairs Qualification Course, Defense Information School, Fort George G. Meade, Md.
ASSIGNMENTS:
1. July 2022 – January 2023, Student, Undergraduate RPA Training, JBSA-Randolph, Texas
2. January 2023 – July 2025, Public Affairs Officer, JBSA-Fort Sam Houston, Texas
3. July 2025 – Present, Public Affairs Advisor, 388th Fighter Wing and F-35A Demonstration Team, Hill AFB, Utah
MAJOR AWARDS AND DECORATIONS:
Air and Space Commendation Medal
Air and Space Achievement Medal
EFFECTIVE DATES OF PROMOTION:
Second Lieutenant May 25, 2022
First Lieutenant May 25, 2024
(Current as of March 2026)