Jeffrey L. Bannister

Jeffrey L. Bannister (April 7, 1961 – May 27, 2018) was a career officer in the United States Army. A veteran of Operation Joint Guardian, Operation Essential Harvest (2000–2001), Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation Enduring Freedom, and Operation Freedom Sentinel, he attained the rank of major general and was a recipient of the Army Distinguished Service Medal (2), Defense Superior Service Medal (4), Legion of Merit (2), and Bronze Star Medal (3). Bannister was most notable for his service as commander of the 10th Mountain Division from 2015 to 2017.

Bannister was serving as a special assistant to the commander of United States Central Command and awaiting retirement when he died of a heart attack while on a run at Lake Murray near Lexington, South Carolina. He was buried at Arlington National Cemetery.

Early life Jeffrey Lynn Bannister was born in Coalinga, California on April 7, 1961, a son of L.T. Bannister of Rome, Georgia and Betty (Johnson) Bannister of Cleburne County, Alabama. Bannister attended Pepperell High School in Lindale, Georgia, then completed his General Educational Development diploma. While in college, he took part in the Reserve Officers' Training Corps program, which he completed as a Distinguished Honor Graduate. His subsequent commands included 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division (later reflagged as 4th Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division) at Fort Carson (2005–2008). He served as deputy commander for operations at the 10th Mountain Division from 2009 to 2011, and deputy assistant chief of staff for operations (J3) at United States Central Command (2014–2015). Bannister was buried at Arlington National Cemetery. They were the parents of a daughter, Lindsey.