Stephen Jost

Stephen Fraser Jost^[1] (born c. 1972) is a United States Air Force lieutenant general who has served as the commander of United States Forces Japan and Fifth Air Force since 8 October 2024.^[2] He most recently served as the commander of the Joint Enabling Capabilities Command from 2022 to 2024. He previously served as the deputy director for joint strategic planning at the Joint Staff from 2020 to 2022. He also served as director of the Air Force F-35 Integration Office from 2017 to 2018.^[3][4]

Stephen Jost
Official portrait, 2024
Born	c. 1972 (age 52–53) San Antonio, Texas, U.S.[1]
Allegiance	United States
Branch	United States Air Force
Years of service	1994–present
Rank	Lieutenant General
Commands	United States Forces Japan Fifth Air Force Joint Enabling Capabilities Command 20th Fighter Wing 33rd Operations Group 332nd Expeditionary Operations Support Squadron
Awards	Defense Superior Service Medal (2) Legion of Merit (3)

While serving as the 20th Fighter Wing commander, Jost relieved his vice commander, Colonel William Jones, after the latter was charged with possession of child pornography and obstruction of justice.^[5]

In May 2022, Jost was nominated for promotion to major general.^[6] In March 2024, he was nominated for promotion to lieutenant general and commander of United States Forces Japan and the Fifth Air Force.^[7][8]