Merz Family

“The Special Operations Warrior Foundation has made it possible for me to go to my dream school and pursue a degree in aerospace engineering. I’m currently a freshman at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. The SOWF has provided critical financial assistance, guidance on the college process, and meaningful support throughout my first year of academics. This is a thoroughly appreciated opportunity that will pay dividends for the rest of my life.”

Jack Merz is a freshman attending Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University – Daytona Beach, working toward a bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering. He is projected to graduate May 2025. Jack is the son of Air Force Colonel Alexander Merz. Col. Merz lost his life in 2019 while serving at a Secretary of Defense for Intelligence in the Air Force Special Operations Command.

Jack's Story

SOWF College Aerospace Engineering Student Remembers with His Dad

Jack Merz lost his father, Air Force Colonel Alexander Merz in 2019. Alexander served as the Secretary of Defense for Intelligence for the Air Force Special Operations Command. Jack said that while his father was often a busy man, he valued the time that he was able to spend with his family.

“There wasn’t a lot of gifts that meant a lot to me; it was time,” Jack recalled. “Doing things with him; that’s what meant a lot to me, and he was aware of that. Mountain biking with him or going outside and playing catch; just things like that.”

Jack has two siblings, and they each do their best to mimic their father. “I try to emulate my dad. I think he was a very good man,” Jack replied. “So, things like having my words mean what I say they mean; this is something I really respected. Just being somewhere when you say you’re going to be somewhere.” The Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University freshman was pleased to learn about the Special Operations Warrior Foundation from his mother, a few months after losing his father. “I was really excited,” Jack said. “It is a really good opportunity to go to school wherever you want to go. That was an opportunity I didn’t have before.

The Special Operations Warrior Foundation has made it possible for me to go to my dream school and pursue a degree in aerospace engineering. I’m currently a freshman at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. The SOWF has provided critical financial assistance, guidance on the college process, and meaningful support throughout my first year of academics. This is a thoroughly appreciated opportunity that will pay dividends for the rest of my life.”