In this issue, The AFIT Foundation will be recognizing Lieutenant Colonel (Ret.) James Thorne, PhD, Director of Defense
and Aerospace of DHL Global Forwarding.

Lt Col Thorne received his M.S. and PhD in Astronautical Engineering from the U.S. Air Force Institute of Technology in 1989 and 1996. He initially joined the military because the Air Force offered a ROTC scholarship, and he wanted to pursue a career in the space business. He now works
in astrodynamics research and is involved in educational outreach for elementary science using music.

Lt Col Thorne’s favorite memory at AFIT was being hooded for my PhD while wearing his father’s academic robe as he watched. The Master’s and PhD programs at AFIT set him up for a great career in
space technology.

When asked about what advice he would give to those considering going into the military, Lt Col Thorne said to take advantage of all educational opportunities. Thank you, Lieutenant Colonel Thorne!