Captain Thomas A. Hejl, a native of Boca Raton, Florida, graduated from the United States Naval Academy in June of 1977 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Aerospace Engineering. His first sea duty was on board USS HORNE (CG 30), based in San Diego, California, in which he completed two deployments to the Western Pacific.

He completed flight training and was designated a Naval Aviator in January 1982. His first aviation tour was with VA 97 in Lemoore, California, flying A-7Es on board USS CORAL SEA (CV 43) and USS CARL VINSON (CVN 70). Captain Hejl transitioned to the F/A-18 during an instructor tour with VFA 125 in 1986. He served a department head tour with VFA 195 onboard USS MIDWAY (CV 41). This tour brought two deployments to the Arabian Gulf and combat missions in OPERATION DESERT STORM. After a shore tour at VX 4 in Point Mugu, California as the AIM-120 (AMRAAM) missile test director, Captain Hejl served as Executive and Commanding Officer of VFA 151 in Lemoore, California. His command tour included one overseas deployment on board USS CONSTELLATION (CV 64) in 1994-1995.

He attended the Senior Officer Course at the Naval War College in Newport, Rhode Island, where he earned a degree in National Security and Strategic Studies. Captain Hejl served with the Office of the Secretary of Defense (Program Analysis and Evaluation) in Washington, DC until reporting for command of USS DUBUQUE in September 1999.

During his career, he has logged more than 3,600 flight hours and 750 arrested landings. His awards include the Legion of Merit, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal (with Gold Star), three Strike/Flight Air Medals, the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (with combat V), and numerous unit and service awards.

Captain Hejl is married to the former Jaya Ganeshan of Alexandria, Virginia. They have three daughters: Lisa, Claire and Helen. Captain Hejl's family lives in San Diego, California.