John S. Lekson

Who is John S. Lekson?

John S. Lekson was a United States Army officer. He was born to Slovenian immigrant parents. He graduated from Western Reserve University and enlisted in the Ohio National Guard in 1940 as a Private. He was commissioned through Officer Candidate School and rose to Major during World War II. During the war, he served with the 82nd Airborne Division, including the 504th Parachute Infantry, and fought in North Africa, Italy, the Netherlands and Germany, including the Battle of the Bulge. He also served in Austria, Italy and Korea.

In Vietnam he served as Assistant Commander of the 9th Infantry Division and the 101st Airborne Division in 1967-68, subsequently rising in rank to Major General. His final assignment was Director of Operations for the Readiness Command, predecessor of the U.S. Central Command. He retired in 1975. His medals included the Distinguished Service Medal, the Silver Star, the Legion of Merit and the Bronze Star.

He is buried in Section 59 of Arlington National Cemetery with honors.