In addition to his legislative duties, Haffner owns and operates a Christmas Tree Farm.

Haffner served as an officer in the United States Navy. Before retiring he was the Commanding Officer of an F/A-18 Hornet Squadron and led combat air patrols over New York City immediately following 9-11. During his Commanding Officer tour, his squadron was recognized by all of Naval Aviation with the prestigious Admiral Wade McClusky award as the best attack squadron in the United States Navy, and with the Battle "E" award as the best F/A 18 Hornet squadron on the east coast.

As a highly decorated Naval Officer, Haffner was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross, four individual Air Medals, five Strike Flight Air Medals, and three Navy Commendation Medals for bold initiative, uncommon valor and loyal devotion to duty in direct combat.

His other awards include the Meritorious Service Medal, four Navy Commendation Medals (seven total awards, three with Combat "V"), Navy Achievement Medal, as well as numerous other unit, expeditionary and individual awards.

During his time in the legislature, Rep. Haffner has earned a reputation as an authentic conservative with a track record of delivering results. Rep. Haffner received numerous legislative awards for exceptional results-driven performance, including; Missouri Soybeans Legislator of the Year, Association of Missouri Cooperatives Legislative Leadership Award, Missouri Cattlemen Legislator of the Year, Missouri Cattlemen Legislative Courage Award, Missouri Corn Growers Friend of Corn Award, Missouri Corn Growers Public Servant Award, as well as Missouri Farm Bureau Friend of Agriculture Award.

Haffner's broad range of sponsored legislation including right-to-life, agriculture, utilities, military and veterans affairs, law enforcement, and education reform bills have not only defined his priorities, but have proven his legislative ability to address problems with commonsense solutions that work for Missourians.

Haffner earned his bachelor's degree in Business Administration with an emphasis in Accounting from Cleveland State University and a master's degree in National Security and Strategic Studies from the Naval War College.

Haffner is a lifetime member of the VFW, a member of the NRA, and an elder on sabbatical at Cornerstone Community Church in Harrisonville.

He and his wife, Teresa, reside in Pleasant Hill and have three children, two daughters-in-law, and five grandchildren.