Over a distinguished 21-year career in the United States Air Force, Lieutenant Colonel Matt Menendez served as a pilot across multiple aircraft and missions, including combat, humanitarian, and global cargo operations. Beginning in December 2004, he trained at various locations until 2007, after which he was stationed at Duke Field (Eglin AFB Field 3) near Destin, Florida, from 2007 to 2014.

At Duke Field, he flew the MC-130E Combat Talon and M-28 SkyTruck, supporting numerous specialized missions. In 2009, he deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, flying high-risk missions including air drops, in-flight helicopter aerial refueling, and rapid infiltration/exfiltration of special forces personnel in hostile environments. In 2013, he was deployed to central Africa, providing critical air support to special operations units operating in austere and contested regions.

From 2014 until retirement in 2025, he served as a traditional reservist based out of Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas. During this time, he flew the C-5 Galaxy, supporting worldwide airlift missions. These included wartime supply deliveries as well as vital humanitarian missions. Noteworthy missions included transporting 160,000 pounds of food to alleviate a food crisis in Panama, and solemn duties involving the dignified return of fallen U.S. service members to their families for burial.

Throughout his career, Lt Col Menendez served as a Command Evaluator Pilot, a testament to his advanced flight expertise and leadership. His professionalism, skill, and dedication earned him numerous honors, including:

His service reflects an unwavering commitment to mission success, operational excellence, and the highest standards of military aviation. His career is marked by a profound sense of duty, global impact, and enduring contributions to both national security and humanitarian efforts.

His family moved here in the summer of 2021. They are so thankful for the community and friendships they have made as they raise their family here.

For nearly three decades, Derrin Shriner has proudly served our country in the United States Navy. His journey began in 1998, shortly after high school, when a strong performance on the military aptitude test opened doors he hadn’t initially expected. The Navy offered him both the opportunity to pursue a future in the submarine force and a scholarship to the University of Texas at Austin, two incentives that ultimately shaped the course of his life. Twenty-seven years later, Derrin continues to serve in the Reserves, supporting the Submarine Pacific Fleet.

Throughout his career, Derrin has held leadership positions that highlight his dedication and excellence. He has commanded several units, working alongside some of the Navy’s most talented and dedicated sailors. Among his many distinctions, he considers receiving the Meritorious Service Medal—awarded for his service as Commanding Officer of Commander Navy Europe supporting operations in East Africa—one of his greatest honors. Yet his military service is not his only source of pride. In true community spirit, Derrin also jokes that he is the reigning Cornhole Champion at Balcones Country Club, along with his neighbor Jason Black.

Derrin’s life has been equally shaped by family and community. He and his wife, Jolene, have been active supporters of the BCC Sharks Swim Team since their sons, Jacob and Travis, first learned to swim. He has also coached both boys in soccer, fostering teamwork and confidence. Beyond his neighborhood, Derrin serves on the UT Naval ROTC Alumni Board, where he helps raise scholarship funds for aspiring Navy Midshipmen at his alma mater.

When reflecting on the lessons his service has taught him, Derrin points to dependability, adaptability, and problem-solving under pressure. These skills have shaped his civilian life and career, offering him unique perspectives gained through years of travel and global experiences. “Visiting foreign ports gave me unforgettable memories,” he shares, “but also a deeper appreciation for the place we call home.”

To young people considering military service, Derrin offers heartfelt advice: “Figure out what makes you happy and let that be your guide. Explore the many specialties across the branches, ask questions, and find the right fit. In the end, all military members share a universal bond that will stay with you for life.”