He entered the United States Army Air Corps as an aviation cadet in March 1942 and was commissioned as a second lieutenant upon completing pilot training in February 1943.

In November 1948, Hill returned to active duty and served as a flight commander with the 3525th Pilot Training Wing, Williams Air Force Base, Arizona.

In August 1950, he was transferred to the 8th Fighter-Bomber Wing at Itazuke Air Base, Japan, and began flying combat missions in Korea.

He transferred to Fort Bragg, North Carolina in January 1952 for duty with the Joint Tactical Air Support Board.

He attended the Industrial College of the Armed Forces during 1963–64, and was awarded a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from the University of Maryland in 1964.

In August 1964, General Hill went to Clark Air Base, Republic of the Philippines, where he was deputy commander for operations of the 405th Fighter Wing; in September 1964, he became commander of the wing; and in January 1966, was reassigned on base to Headquarters Thirteenth Air Force as deputy chief of staff, plans and operations.

Hill returned to the United States in July 1966 and commanded the 3615th Pilot Training Wing, Craig Air Force Base, Alabama.

Major Hill's heroism, skill, and complete disregard for his personal safety reflect highest credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.