John “Irish” Patrick Keilty

Captain John Patrick Keilty, U.S. Navy, was born 8 March 1953 in Fort Worth, Texas, and grew up in Northern Virginia. After attending the University of Utah and commissioned through the Naval ROTC, he became a Naval Aviator and logged over 5,000 hours in more than 50 aircraft over a 26-year career.

Keilty held three command positions, notably leading the Fleet Air Reconnaissance Squadron Three (VQ-3) during its major relocation from Hawaii to Oklahoma. As Commanding Officer of the Naval Test Pilot School at NAS Patuxent River, his achievements include: two consecutive years of accident-free flying in five decades of test pilot operations; and after the Cold War, he was one of the first Americans to fly the Mig-29 Fighter in Russia. Later, as Commodore of Strategic Communications Wing ONE (CSCW-1) at Tinker AFB, he oversaw 1,200 Sailors, earning the Omaha Trophy for best airwing in US Strategic Command.

Retiring from the Navy in 2001 with a Legion of Merit, Keilty became a dedicated educator and mentor. He taught AP Physics, Math, and Aeronautics; served as Athletic Director/coach at Mount St. Mary High School; and taught Physics and Math at Rose State College. He mentored students at the Tuskegee Airman Leadership workshop; led Aerospace Discovery Camps; and was twice named “Teacher/Educator of the Year.” He was awarded the Tinker and Primes “Patriot Award,” and induction into the TACAMO Community Veteran’s Association Hall of Fame.

While serving as Del City High School’s NJROTC Director until May 2025, Keilty contributed as a sports commentator; volunteer; community leader; led community projects such as the Robert Kalsu statue dedication; and inspired youth and veterans alike through leadership, public service, and motivational speeches honoring military heroes. Captain Keilty truly exhibits the foundation’s motto, “Spirit of a Warrior, Heart of a Patriot” as recipient of the Major General Douglas O. Dollar Distinguished Public Service Award.