Jerome L. Hess

A great American war eagle has departed on his last launch off this life's deck. I am sure that his departed wingmen were there to escort him to his proper place in a warrior's heaven. I know that he will lead the squadron to escort me when the time comes.

My brother in spirit and heart since our days in the NROTC at the University of New Mexico, he will be sorely missed.

My heart and prayers go out to Jerry "Spandau" Hess's entire family.

Go with God my...

I first met Jerry in 1981,when we spent a year together at the Canadian National Defence College in Kingston, Ontario. We became great friends and throughout the past 30 years, along with our wives, Sandy and Sally, we have maintained this close relationship.

Jerry was indeed a very fine fellow, an accomplished aviator and, perhaps above all, a loyal and dedicated member of the U.S. Marine Corps. Sadly,he's gone but his memory will live on in our hearts forever.

Alistair...

We were saddened to hear of Jerry's passing. We worked together while I was in the military at Mugu during the mid-70s, and then after his retirement while we were both defense contractors in the 90s. I'll always remember Jerry as a gentleman, a professional, and a friend. Our condolences to Sandy and the rest of Jerry's family.

Dear Sandy,

Please accept my sincere condolences. I worked with Jerry at Vitro, where I developed a deep respect for him as a strong leader, and as a friend. To me, Jerry was the epitome of the USMC officer, and yet he was always accessible. Jerry once told me that I would have made a good Marine. I’m still proud of the compliment.

Jerry will be missed, but his memory will endure in the effect he had on those who knew him.

With deepest sympathy,

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

All Marines in the Ventura area will sorely miss Jerry.

Sincerely,
Larry A. Jones Major USMCR (Ret)

I was saddened to read about Jerry's passing. He was a real gentleman. He always had a kind thing to say when he saw or talked to you. I'll always have great memories of Jerry. God Bless.
My condolences to Sandy and the family.

It was an honor to know and work with Jerry at Vitro and to meet with him periodically for lunch after he retired. He always had a good story (or two) to tell. Especially enjoyed receiving his e-mails for the past several years. He will be missed and we both wish him fair winds and following seas. Rest in peace my friend.

I was in my mid-20s back in the '70s when I went to work for Jerry at Point Mugu in the Attack Weapons Branch. It was my first experience working with military. As a shy, young female, Jerry was a wonderful professional to work for. I learned to love the flying aspect of the military thru Jerry and the great guys in Attack Weapons. I fondly recall his courtship with Sandy. He was so excited and much in love. I was thrilled to read how their love endured all these years. I met Sandy a...

half of me went away on the day of his death. Sandy