SAN DIEGO - Lt. Cmdr. George Hirner, Jr., a native of Cochran, Georgia, serves the U.S. Navy and is assigned to Naval Surface and Mine Warfighting Development Center (SMWDC), where the Navy’s surface warfighters increase the lethality and tactical proficiency of the Surface Force.
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| Photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Joey Sitter, Navy Public Affairs Support Element West |
Hirner graduated from Bleckley County High School (Cochran) in 2007. Additionally, Hirner earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration in 2011 and a Master of Business Administration in 2018 from Auburn University.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Cochran.
“Extemporaneous speaking, theatre in high school and leading groups in my scout troops en route to my Eagle Scout all went a long way toward making me comfortable in large settings and public speaking,” Hirner said. “Those three things in my extracurriculars really carried me forward throughout my career. I was also a pole vaulter in high school, and Coach Cranford would always tell Stevie and me to go run a mile. I’d ask why I needed to run, and he said, ‘Every mile you get in those shoes is one less mile later on.’ He taught me that physical fitness is a long-term commitment, not for short-term gratification. He’s still mentoring me and I appreciate him still being in my life in some kind of way.”
Hirner joined the Navy 13 years ago. Today, Hirner serves as a surface warfare officer.
“My dad had nearly 40 years of service in the Navy and Air Force,” Hirner said. “He joined the Navy during the Vietnam War era and was an aviation boatswain’s mate on an aircraft carrier, USS Ticonderoga, in the Gulf of Tonkin. He served in the Navy Reserve, Air Force Reserve and was active duty in the Air Force. He retired from active duty in the Air Force as a chief master sergeant. I look up to him a lot and am honored to follow in his footsteps in a career of service. He was my first salute when I commissioned. It meant a lot to me. My dad’s service also inspired my older brother to join the Navy in the nuclear power program. He served for 10 years and is now coming back to the Navy on the reserve side.”
“SMWDC sailors exemplify the dedication, expertise and tactical excellence that drive the lethality of our Surface Force,” said Rear Adm. Wilson Marks, Commander, Naval Surface and Mine Warfighting Development Center. “Through their commitment to warfighting innovation and operational proficiency, they strengthen our Navy’s combat readiness and ensure that we remain ready to deter or defeat any adversary when our nation calls.”
The U.S. Navy is celebrating its 250th birthday this year.
According to Navy officials, “America is a maritime nation and for 250 years, America’s Warfighting Navy has sailed the globe in defense of freedom.”
With 90% of global commerce traveling by sea and access to the internet relying on the security of undersea fiber optic cables, Navy officials continue to emphasize that the prosperity of the United States is directly linked to recruiting and retaining talented people from across the rich fabric of America.
Hirner has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“I’m proud of winning Surface Warfare Officer of the Year for Mine Division (MINEDIV) 12 and screening for command,” Hirner said. “I led all developmental and operational testing of the Littoral Combat Ship Mine Countermeasures Mission Package. Leading a team to make the impossible possible was inspiring to be a part of. We were scheduled to be underway for two weeks and had five operational testing events that had to be demonstrated. What was supposed to take two weeks, we got done in four days. I translated the passion I had for what we were doing directly to the sailors, and we were able to come home early because they bought into that passion and my leadership. I was awarded a spot commendation medal, and 20 of my sailors also received spot Navy Achievement Medals or other awards. It was by far the most rewarding single event that I’ve been a part of or led.”
Hirner serves a Navy that operates far forward, around the world and around the clock, promoting the nation’s prosperity and security.
“Serving those who serve is my highest honor to date,” Hirner said. “It goes back to my dad being my first salute. I always framed my service with the perspective that I need to be the best version of myself to lead the people I need to lead because I’m going to lead people like my dad.”
Hirner is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I want to thank my wife, Kaitlin, and our children, Kaysen and Saylor, for supporting me in everything I do,” Hirner added. “I try to be the best example I can. They inspire me to be great every day. I also want to thank my mom, Debra, and my dad, George Sr., for their unwavering support. I couldn’t be where I am or who I am without their guidance, mentorship and oversight. They help me see through the muck at times and have lifted my spirits when I’ve needed it most. I’d also like to thank my brothers and sisters, Jon, Desi, Missy, Bill, Tracey and Stevie. I love and miss them. Finally, I want to thank my mother and father-in-law, Kathleen and Kevin, for retiring in the loveliest village on the plains and for their support of Kaitlin and our children in my absence.”