Stancil Military History

Branch: United States Air Force
Service Years: 1963-1984 (21 years)
Rank: Major
Primary Aircraft: B-52 Stratofortress, T-39 Sabreliner
Combat Missions: 300
Major Awards: Distinguished Flying Cross, Air Medal (multiple), Combat Crew Excellence Awards

Jes Hales dedicated 21 years of his life to the United States Air Force, entering service in 1963 after earning his bachelor's degree in History from East Carolina University. Rising through the ranks to become a respected officer, pilot, and Aircrew Commander, Jes's career spanned critical eras of Cold War aviation. As a B-52 crew commander and instructor pilot, he flew an astounding 300 combat missions across major strategic bases in Guam, Okinawa, and Thailand. For extraordinary heroism and achievement during aerial flight, he received the Distinguished Flying Cross among numerous other honors.

For a full biography of Jes's early life, family, and personal story, visit his Family Biography Page.

1963-1967 — Officer Training & Early Flight Career

October 1964: Del Rio, Texas: Jes being 'pinned' with his Air Force wings by his wife, Betsy, at Laughlin Air Force Base.

Jes entered the Air Force in 1963 and quickly distinguished himself in flight training. He mastered the T-39 Sabreliner and began building the operational experience that would define his career. His early assignments prepared him for the demanding role of B-52 pilot and Aircrew Commander.

1968: Jes in the cockpit of a T-39 Sabreliner during early flight operations.

Guam Flight Line (1968): Jes during preflight operations at Andersen AFB.

1967-1973 — The Vietnam War & 7 TDY Combat Tours

As an Aircrew Commander, Jes was deployed directly into the intense air campaigns of the Vietnam War. Between 1967 and 1973, he completed seven Temporary Duty (TDY) tours, spending a cumulative 865 days in the Southeast Asian theater. Operating heavy strategic bombers out of Kadena Air Base (Okinawa), Andersen AFB (Guam), and U-Tapao (Thailand), Jes ultimately logged 300 combat missions.

Guam (1972): Jes at his crew station inside a B-52G Stratofortress during Operation Linebacker.

U-Tapao, Thailand: Jes (left) receives his 200th combat mission patch from Major General Frank W. Elliott Jr., commander of the 307th Strategic Wing.

B-52 Crew: Jes (third from left) with fellow aircrew members during Southeast Asia operations.

Guam (1970): Jes during one of his seven TDY combat tours.

1976-1980 — Advanced Degrees & ACSC Faculty

After extensive combat service, Jes advanced his academic and professional military education. In 1976, he earned an MPA from Auburn University. He then served as a B-52 instructor pilot and faculty member at the Air Command and Staff College, completing an additional Master's degree in Public Administration in 1980. His leadership and experience shaped the next generation of Air Force officers.

1980-1984 — Final Service Years & Retirement

Jes continued serving as an instructor pilot and senior officer until his retirement in 1984. His 21-year career left a lasting legacy of professionalism, courage, and dedication to the mission. Following his military service, he worked as a realtor and broker for many years.

Jes and his wife, Betsy, attended a reunion for B-52 KC-135 Reunion in 2012 in Savannah, Georgia. They also returned to North Carolina for several Stancil Family Reunions over the years.

Jesman "Jes" Arnold Hales, husband of Betsy Jean Lane Hales and son of the late Cedric Jesmon Hales and Hilda Mae Stancil Hales Stover, died April 10, 2024, at his Prattville, Alabama, home surrounded by family.

2005: Jes in later years, reflecting a lifetime of service.

— stancilreunion.com