Jason “JJ” Justice: Keeping the Air Force’s B-1B Combat-Ready and Flying

Jason “JJ” Justice grew up surrounded by stories of service.

Born in the Philippines and adopted into a military family, he grew up listening to tales of duty and sacrifice from his father and uncle, both Air Force veterans, and the generations before them who had worn the uniform.

At 18, he enlisted, expecting a desk job in admin or finance. Instead, after taking a skill placement test, he was assigned to aircraft maintenance — a field he had never even considered.

And then, something clicked. “I didn’t choose aircraft maintenance,” he says. “But it was exactly where I was meant to be.”

That unexpected beginning turned into a 26-year career dedicated to keeping the B-1 fleet mission ready and mentoring the next generation of maintainers.

Building an Air Force Career from the Ground Up

JJ’s journey in the Air Force began with the fundamentals of aircraft maintenance — holding tools, observing procedures, and familiarizing himself with the intricate systems that ensure the aircraft are serviceable, safe, and combat-ready.

“At the time, my focus was on safety and understanding the mechanics,” he recalls. “I was often the one holding the flashlight, but that role showed me that something so small can make a big impact and taught me the discipline needed in maintenance.”

Seeing his potential, JJ’s mentors entrusted him with greater responsibilities, assigning him to lead maintenance crews on critical projects. By the time he earned the rank of staff sergeant, JJ had transformed from an eager young airman into a well-rounded and trusted aircraft mechanic in the B-1 community.

Looking back, JJ says, “I had leaders that put me in leadership positions because they wanted to see me grow in other ways. To become the individual that teaches and guides younger mechanics to become better leaders instead of being the one turning the wrench.” He credits those early years with shaping the leader he became, reinforcing a lifelong commitment to excellence and teamwork.

Hot Pit Refueling

From 2009 to 2011, JJ worked on one of his most significant contributions to the Air Force, spearheading the implementation of hot pit Refueling for the B-1 — a game-changer for high-tempo missions.

Before this innovation, refueling required the aircraft to land, shut down, refuel, and restart. It was a slow, labor-intensive process that increased wear and heightened the risk of mechanical failures.

Hot pit refueling changed everything. Now, crews could land a fully operational B-1, keep it running, refuel, and have it back in the air within minutes. By slashing downtime between flights, JJ’s team dramatically increased daily sorties, enhancing both training efficiency and combat readiness.

“It transformed how we operated the B-1 fleet,” JJ says. “We went from hours on the ground to minutes, maximizing every hour of the day for mission objectives.”

Beyond streamlining operations, this innovation reduced wear on critical systems, cut maintenance costs and extended the fleet’s lifespan.

The impact of JJ and his team’s work set a new standard for bomber operations, shaping the B-1B’s role in the Air Force and paving the way for similar advancements across other aircraft platforms.

Joining 2 Circle

After 26 years of military service, JJ had a big decision to make — step into a government role or take on an opportunity with 2 Circle, Inc.

Encouraged by trusted colleagues like George “Drool” Holland and drawn to 2 Circle’s close-knit family and people-first culture, JJ made the leap in May 2019. “The support at 2 Circle is unmatched,” he says. “It feels like a military family, giving me the resources and freedom to make a real impact.”

Since then, he has become a key player in 2 Circle’s mission to sustain the B-1 fleet. Acting as a bridge between military and civilian teams, he has helped engineers, program managers, and field technicians work together more effectively. His efforts have improved response times for technical challenges, strengthened logistical support, and boosted mission readiness.

Restoring “Lancelot”

One of JJ’s proudest accomplishments at 2 Circle was leading the restoration of a decommissioned B-1B, nicknamed “Lancelot”— a bomber pulled from long-term storage in the desert at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base and given a second chance to serve.

In 2022, a catastrophic engine fire at Dyess AFB sidelined a B-1B, threatening fleet readiness. With repairs deemed too costly, the Air Force needed a solution: bring “Lancelot” back to the fight.

But this wouldn’t be easy. After years in the desert heat, the aircraft was in rough shape — worn down by time and exposure. Restoring it to full operational status would take teamwork, determination, and a relentless commitment to getting it right.

JJ, along with the B-1 Special Program Office (SPO), experts from Davis-Monthan, Dyess’ 7th Bomb Wing, Tinker’s 76th Expeditionary Depot Maintenance Flight, and the 569th Egress Flight, tackled the challenge head-on. Every system was carefully inspected, repaired, and tested to ensure it met the highest standards.

JJ played a critical role in defining work requirements and coordinating equipment and personnel from the 309th AMARG to execute the regeneration. His team worked closely with the 10th Flight Test Squadron aircrew at Tinker, providing real-time updates and maintenance support to ensure the aircraft met current software requirements for flight.

As Lancelot neared the final stages of restoration, JJ oversaw engine runs, test flights, and final certifications, ensuring no detail was overlooked. After months of effort, the aircraft was officially cleared for flight and returned to service — proof that even the most neglected jets could fly again.

“This project showed that with the right team and approach, aircraft once thought unusable can be brought back to life,” JJ shares.

More than just a success story, Lancelot’s return set a new standard for restoring boneyard aircraft, offering a vital solution for an aging B-1 fleet. “Now, we have a proven way to extend the life of these platforms while making critical upgrades that keep our warfighters flying and safe,” he says.

For JJ, the project wasn’t just about the aircraft — it was about the team behind it. “None of this would have been possible without the dedication of an incredible group who put their hearts into every step of the process.”

Leadership and growth at 2C

In April 2023, JJ stepped into the role of Director of Logistics Operations within the Bomber Aircraft team at 2 Circle. In this role, he and his team work alongside depot crews, flightline squadrons, and supply teams to keep the B-1 mission ready. For JJ, true success goes beyond hitting numbers or fixing jets — it’s about the people behind the mission.

“Take care of your people, and everything else falls into place,” he says. It’s a simple belief that has shaped his leadership from day one.

Building trust is one of his top priorities. He knows that when people feel supported, they’re more confident in taking ownership of their work. “My job is to give them the tools they need to succeed and the freedom to figure things out on their own,” he explains.

And when they do succeed, he makes sure they know it. “Every win matters, no matter how small,” he says. “When you celebrate progress, you remind people that their work has meaning.”

Future Goals and the legacy of b-1

As the B-1 fleet ages and evolves, JJ wants to do his part in keeping the aircraft mission ready for years to come.

“The B-1 can do things no other bomber can,” he explains. “Our job is to make sure it remains mission-capable, ready for evolving threats, and that we train the next generation to carry its legacy forward.”

JJ believes in developing the next wave of airmen — not just by teaching technical skills, but by instilling a deep sense of pride, responsibility, and commitment to the mission.

“This jet has taught me so much about leadership, teamwork, and perseverance,” he says. “I want to make sure the airmen and technicians coming up behind me have the same opportunities to learn, grow, and be part of something bigger than themselves.”

And with the right people in place, JJ is optimistic about the future of the B-1. “This aircraft has defied expectations time and time again. With the right team behind it, I have no doubt it will continue to do so for years to come.”