Terence Hildner, American general (b. 1962)

Brigadier General Terence John Hildner (February 20, 1962 – February 3, 2012) was a distinguished United States Army General Officer whose career culminated in significant leadership roles during a critical period of military operations. His service exemplified dedication to supporting deployed forces in complex environments.

From 2010 until his untimely passing in 2012, General Hildner commanded the 13th Sustainment Command (Expeditionary), a pivotal unit within the U.S. Army. Headquartered at Fort Hood, Texas, the 13th ESC is a vital component of the Army's logistical backbone. Its mission involves providing comprehensive logistical, sustainment, and support operations for deployed forces. This includes everything from supplying troops with essential provisions and equipment to managing transportation, maintenance, and medical support across a vast operational theater. In his capacity as commander, General Hildner was directly responsible for ensuring that U.S. and coalition forces in Afghanistan received the necessary resources to conduct their missions effectively, a role that is absolutely critical to the success and endurance of any large-scale military operation.

General Hildner died on February 3, 2012, while actively serving in Afghanistan. His death, attributed to natural causes, occurred at his base. This event marked a somber moment, as he became the second highest-ranking American officer to die while serving in the war in Afghanistan. It is important to distinguish that while he passed away within the theater of operations, his death was not due to combat action.

The highest-ranking American officer to die in Afghanistan was Major General Harold J. Greene, who was tragically killed in an insider attack in August 2014. General Hildner's death, though from natural causes, underscored the inherent risks and immense physical and mental strains associated with high-level command responsibilities in a demanding war zone, even beyond direct combat engagements.

Frequently Asked Questions About Brigadier General Terence John Hildner

Who was Brigadier General Terence John Hildner?
Brigadier General Terence John Hildner was a highly respected United States Army General Officer who notably commanded the 13th Sustainment Command (Expeditionary) during the Afghanistan War, focusing on critical logistical and support operations for deployed forces.
What was the 13th Sustainment Command (Expeditionary)'s role?
The 13th Sustainment Command (Expeditionary), which General Hildner commanded, is responsible for providing comprehensive logistical support, including supply, maintenance, transportation, and medical services, to U.S. and coalition forces deployed in a theater of operations like Afghanistan.
How did Brigadier General Hildner die?
Brigadier General Terence John Hildner died on February 3, 2012, of natural causes while serving at his base in Afghanistan.
What is the significance of his death in the context of the Afghanistan War?
General Hildner was the second highest-ranking American officer to die while serving in the Afghanistan War. This highlights the various risks faced by service members, including high-ranking officers, even from non-combat related incidents, within a deployed and high-stress environment.
Who was the highest-ranking American officer to die in Afghanistan?
Major General Harold J. Greene holds the unfortunate distinction as the highest-ranking American officer to die in Afghanistan; he was killed in an insider attack in August 2014.