United States Air Force Captain Samuel "Hijack" Valleroy, a graduate of South Effingham High School (Class of 2015), recently flew an American flag during a critical mission over the Red Sea and has dedicated the flag to his alma mater.

Captain Valleroy, an F-16 fighter pilot and 2019 graduate of the Air Force Academy, flew the flag while deployed in the Middle East. The mission was part of multinational efforts to restore freedom of navigation in the region, which has been severely challenged by attacks from the Iranian-backed Houthi terrorist group.

As a gesture of pride and respect for the community that raised him, Capt. Valleroy specifically sought to dedicate this American flag to South Effingham High School.

Capt. Valleroy is the oldest son of Joe and Amanda Valleroy, who is a teacher at SEHS. Capt Valleroy's wife, Mara, is also a graduate of SEHS, class of 2015.