Glen D. VanHerck

Glen D. VanHerck is a retired United States Air Force general who served as the commander of both United States Northern Command (USNORTHCOM) and the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD). His tenure was marked by a significant focus on modernizing the defense of the United States and Canada against advanced threats, including cruise missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles. VanHerck previously held key leadership roles in intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance and air combat operations, culminating a 37-year career that spanned multiple combat theaters and major commands.

Early life and education

VanHerck was born circa 1964 in St. Louis, Missouri. He graduated from Belleville Township High School West in Belleville, Illinois. He then attended Parks College of Saint Louis University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in professional aeronautics and was commissioned through the Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps in 1987. He later earned a Master of Science degree in aeronautical science from Embry–Riddle Aeronautical University and is a graduate of the Air Command and Staff College and the National War College.

Military career

VanHerck began his career as a T-38 Talon instructor pilot before transitioning to the F-15 Eagle. He served in multiple operational fighter squadron assignments, including with the 71st Fighter Squadron and the 493rd Fighter Squadron. His staff assignments included roles at Headquarters United States Air Force within the Air Staff and on the Joint Staff. He commanded the 9th Reconnaissance Wing at Beale Air Force Base, leading operations for the U-2 Dragon Lady and RQ-4 Global Hawk. He later commanded the United States Air Force Warfare Center at Nellis Air Force Base, responsible for advanced weapon system testing and combat training. Prior to his final assignment, he served as the director of the Joint Staff J-3, overseeing global operations for the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

NORAD and USNORTHCOM command

In August 2020, VanHerck was promoted to general and assumed command of both United States Northern Command and the North American Aerospace Defense Command. His command coincided with heightened awareness of aerial domain awareness challenges, leading him to advocate for the modernization of the aging North Warning System. He emphasized the growing threat from Russian Federation hypersonic weapons and People's Republic of China strategic bomber capabilities, testifying frequently before the United States Senate Armed Services Committee and the United States House Armed Services Subcommittee on Strategic Forces. A key initiative was the development of an integrated "domain awareness" system to better track airborne early warning and control threats across the Arctic and continental United States. He retired from active duty in December 2024.

Awards and decorations

VanHerck's personal awards include the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, the Air Force Distinguished Service Medal, the Defense Superior Service Medal with oak leaf cluster, the Legion of Merit with oak leaf cluster, the Bronze Star Medal, the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal with three oak leaf clusters, the Air Medal, the Aerial Achievement Medal, and the Air Force Commendation Medal with oak leaf cluster. He also wears the Combat Readiness Medal, the National Defense Service Medal with service star, and the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal.

Personal life

VanHerck is married and has two children. His son, First Lieutenant Eric VanHerck, is also an officer in the United States Air Force. In his personal time, VanHerck is an avid outdoorsman, with interests in hunting and fishing.

Category:United States Air Force generals Category:United States Northern Command personnel Category:North American Aerospace Defense Command personnel Category:Recipients of the Defense Distinguished Service Medal Category:1960s births