Jon Solem graduated from the United States Military Academy in 1990, and was commissioned an Armor Officer, serving in Germany and Kuwait as a Tank Platoon Leader, Mortar Platoon Leader, Kuwaiti Liaison Officer, and Company Executive Officer. He next served in the 10th Mountain Division as a Troop Commander and Staff Officer and was subsequently assigned to teach ROTC at Temple University in Philadelphia.
Jon left active duty in 2000 and practiced law in Seattle.
Following 9/11, he joined the Army Reserve and resumed his military service. He mobilized as the Infantry Company Commander (Rough Riders) 2007-2008 for the Multinational command. He later commander multiple Battalions in the 104th Division, and two RSGs in the 364th ESC.
He served as the CoS of the 364th ESC, SOTO for the 364th ESC, Deputy Commander for the 91st Training Division, CoS of the 84th Training Command, and finally Deputy Director, AFRICOM J5, Strategy, Plans and Programs. He retired as a Brigadier General in 2024.
Jon’s education includes a Bachelor of Science degree in National Security and Public Affairs from the United States Military Academy, Juris Doctor from Rutgers University Law School, a master's degree in strategic studies from the US Army War College, and a certificate as an Emergency Medical Technician from the Elizabethtown Community and Technical College.
His military education includes Ranger School, Airborne School, Air Assault School, as well as the full range of professional military education. His decorations include the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Bronze Star, Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, and Army Achievement Medal.
He has served as the 79th TSC CXO since July 2021.
He is married to his wife Kim, with five kids, Rebecca, Rachel, Colin, Felix, Jacqueline and one grandchild, Sebastian. They call Whitefish, Montana, home.