Maj Hunter A. Kennedy was born in Norfolk, VA. He attended and completed his undergraduate education at Old Dominion University in 2011, majoring in Mechanical Engineering Technology, with a minor in Military Leadership. In 2022 he graduated from Liberty University with a Master of Science in Aeronautics.
Following graduation, he was commissioned as a 2ndLt in the Marine Corps in Dec 2011 and subsequently attended The Basic School in Quantico, VA. Following graduation from TBS, 2ndLt Kennedy reported to NAS Pensacola for flight training in Sept 2012. He received his wings and designation as a naval aviator in August 2014 and reported to VMMT-204 for follow on training.
1stLt Kennedy reported to VMM-263 as the Ground Safety Officer in January 2015. He deployed to SPMAGTF-CR AF 16.1 from January 2016- August 2016. After returning from deployment, Capt Kennedy moved to Operations and served as the Current Operations Officer, and Future Operations Officer and attended WTI 1-18. In February 2018 Capt Kennedy deployed with VMM-263 to SPMAGTF-CR AF 18.2 as the Pilot Training Officer and Airframes Division Officer, supporting diplomatic and military operations in the North African AO. He returned in July 2018 and served as the Operations Officer and Airframes Division Officer.
In January 2019, Capt Kennedy moved to Okinawa and reported to VMM-262 (REIN) serving as the Pilot Training Officer and on the USS Wasp in support of the 19.2 Patrol with the 31st MEU. Upon return from the MEU he managed the squadrons training and support of numerous different bilateral exercises in the INDOPACOM. Capt Kennedy again deployed with the 31st MEU aboard the USS America ISO the 21.1 and 21.2 patrols. In June 2021 he reported to MAWTS-1.
While at MAWTS-1 Maj Kennedy worked as a division instructor and as the Assault Support Specialist in the Aviation Development Tactics and Evaluation Department. In this capacity he served as the subject matter expert for digital interoperability, survivability equipment, mission planning while also serving as the FINEX Evolution Coordinator.
In May 2024, Major Kennedy reported to VMM-363 and served as the Operations Officer. While he was the Operations Officer, the squadron supported RIMPAC 24 and deployed in support of MRF-D 25.3 during which the squadron conducted numerous bilateral exercises, HA/DR actions in the Philippines, and operations ISO INDOPACOM and C7F while embarked aboard the USS Miguel Kieth. He currently serves as the Executive Officer for VMM-363.
Maj Kennedy has amassed over 2,400 flight hours. His personnel awards include the Meritorious Service Medal, The Navy/Marine Corps Commendation Medal (2nd award) and Navy/Marine Corps Accommodation Medal (2nd award).