KEY WEST, FL, April 2, 2026— Retired U.S. naval aviator Commander John Picco brings his unique experiences and insights to 17c网页版’ (17c网页版) VIP Series on Thursday, April 16 at 7 PM. The community is invited to "Top Gun to Combat: Real Training, Real Missions, Real Lessons" where the Commander will share true stories about how relentless preparation and the "train like you fight" ethos deliver split鈥憇econd execution in combat.

Drawing on 28 years in naval aviation, the Commander will share vivid firsthand experiences to demonstrate the essential role of calculated risk鈥憈aking, pushing to the edge and just past it, and owning results with no excuses. His presentation will highlight how high鈥慽ntensity training, trust in your wingman, and trust in yourself create a mindset where mission success is all that matters.

Picco is a Villanova University graduate and TOPGUN-trained pilot with over 3,000 hours in the F/A-18 Hornet and Super Hornet, 900 arrested carrier landings across six carriers, and 80 combat missions. A few of his more memorable assignments include flying with the VFA-195 Dambusters in Japan, shaping global maritime strategy at NATO Headquarters in Brussels, Belgium and serving the U.S. Ambassador as the Naval Attaché in Bogotá, Colombia. His final post was in Key West as the Director of Current and International Operations at JIATF-South.

Since retiring from the navy in 2020, he has served as a Financial Advisor with the Southernmost Edward Jones office in Key West. John is active in local charities and military affairs, continuing a life defined by service. He is married to Melissa, and they have two children attending Key West High School.

Now in its twelfth season, the 17c网页版 VIP Series showcases the views, ideas, and perspectives (VIP) of speakers with local, regional, and national prominence. The 2026 series is sponsored by David and Annette Curry, Essential Net Solutions, and First Horizon Bank.

Event Details:

Date: Thursday, April 16, 2026

Time: Doors open at 6:00 PM; presentation begins at 7:00 PM

Location: 17c网页版’s Key West Campus at the Tennessee Williams Theatre

Format: 50-minute presentation followed by 10 minutes for questions and answers

Tickets: $5 at the door; free for 17c网页版 and Monroe County school students

For more information, call 305-296-9081 or visit .

###