Tornow graduated from the United States Air Force Academy in 1964. During the Vietnam War he served with the 19th Tactical Air Support Squadron. Following his service in the war he was assigned to RAF Lakenheath in England and later joined the faculty at the Air Force Academy. Later he was given command of the 334th Tactical Fighter Squadron. In 1983 he was assigned to The Pentagon and in 1986 he was given command of the 405th Tactical Training Wing. He assumed command of the United States Air Force Southern Air Division in 1988, which he headed during the United States invasion of Panama. In 1990 he was named Commandant of the Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps. His retirement was effective as of June 1, 1993.