Maj. Gen. Joseph Lynch, USAF (Ret) is a 1969 graduate of the Virginia Military Institute. He entered active duty in the Air Force in 1972 following graduation from law school at Emory University in Georgia. He served 10 years on active duty as a judge advocate followed by 22 years in the Air Force Reserve. His final Air Force assignment was mobilization assistant to the Judge Advocate General of the Air Force while serving in the Air Force Reserve. His civilian position was assistant general counsel (Manpower and Reserve Affairs) for the Department of the Navy, a career senior executive service position (Level 5).

Lynch joined the MOAA staff in 2010. As the corporate secretary, he supports the board of directors and performs other duties associated with the operation of a large corporation. As the general counsel, he advises the board of directors, president, and staff and directs MOAA's legal affairs.