James Diroff

James A. Diroff is a highly decorated Air Force Lieutenant Colonel, combat aviator, and former U-2S “Dragon Lady” Evaluator Pilot who has flown missions at altitudes above 70,000 feet. With 11 deployments and over 5,000 flight hours—including more than 950 in combat—James has led some of the military’s most complex and dangerous high-altitude/near-space reconnaissance operations. Yet beyond the flight suit and medals, he is first and foremost a man of deep Catholic faith, driven by a mission greater than himself.

A spiritual son of Mother Adela, Foundress of the Servants of the Pierced Hearts of Jesus and Mary, James serves as a Director for Worldpriest, Inc., advocating for vocations and promoting the priesthood. He has shared his testimony at Catholic schools, military chapels, and youth events across three continents, and has been featured on local news networks, EWTN Live with Fr. Mitch Pacwa, SiriusXM’s Seize the Day with Gus Lloyd, Forbes Magazine online, The Air Force Times, and Jay Leno’s Garage. As a devoted husband and father of two daughters, James speaks with conviction about purpose, discipline, and the inexhaustible grace and mercy of God.

Whether breaking the sound barrier in a fighter jet, bringing wanted fugitives to justice as a Detective, commanding a jet-powered funny car at over 250 MPH, leading a nationwide corporation as CEO, or kneeling in adoration before the Eucharist, James invites young people to live courageously, serve selflessly, and embrace the incredible adventure of discovering God’s plan for their lives.