John H. Hester

John Hutchison Hester (11 September 1886 – 11 February 1976) was a major general in the United States Army who commanded the 43rd Infantry Division during World War II.

Early career

Hester was born on 11 September 1886 in Albany, Georgia. He attended the University of Georgia before entering the United States Military Academy at West Point, New York. Hester graduated in June 1908 and was commissioned second lieutenant of infantry. He was assigned to Fort McPherson, Georgia as his first assignment and served there until 1913.

Lieutenant Hester participated in the Pancho Villa Expedition in Mexico during 1916 and later was transferred to Washington, D.C., where he was assigned to the General Staff.

Later life and death

Hester died in Atlanta on February 11, 1976, and was buried at Arlington Memorial Park in Sandy Springs, Georgia.

Decorations