Homer S. Hill

Homer Spurgeon Hill (July 21, 1919 – August 7, 1992) was a decorated naval aviator in the United States Marine Corps with the rank of major general. A veteran of three wars, Hill began his career as a reservist and pilot of transport planes, participating in combats in Pacific theater.

Following the war, he was transferred to active duty and rose to the general's rank, participating as Assistant Wing Commander, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing in Vietnam War. He later served as Director of Marine Aviation and during his tenure, McDonnell Douglas AV-8B Harrier II, a single-engine ground-attack aircraft capable of vertical or short takeoff and landing was introduced by the Marine Corps. Hill completed his career as Commanding general, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing in January 1974.

Early career and World War II

Homer S. Hill was born on July 21, 1919, in Winnsboro, Texas, as the son of farmer Gary Lewis Hill and Ivy Juanita Connelly Hill. He completed the Mount Vernon High School in summer 1936 and entered the Texas A&M College in College Station, Texas. While at the college, Hill was active in basketball; was a member of the Reserve Officer Training Corps and also served as Class Vice President in his Senior year. He graduated with Bachelor of Science degree in Agriculture in June 1940.

Hill enlisted the Marine Corps Reserve in June 1941 and entered the Naval Aviation Cadet Training Program at Naval Air Station Corpus Christi, Texas. He completed the flight training in June 1942 and was commissioned second lieutenant in the Marine Corps Reserve. Hill was subsequently assigned to Marine Transport Squadron 253 and embarked for South Pacific.

His staff members maintained a constant dialogue on both fixed-wing and helo support for the Division and these efforts were crucial in the improving of Marine Air Ground tactics. Hill completed his tour in Vietnam in May 1969 and was decorated with Navy Distinguished Service Medal and also received National Order of Vietnam and Gallantry Cross with Palm by the Government of South Vietnam.