Photo By Lance Cpl. Samantha Devine | U.S. Marine Corps Col. Jeremie N. Hester, the outgoing commanding officer of Marine...... read more read more
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MARINE CORPS AIR STATION CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. – When Marines think of leadership, there is a plethora of ideas that come to mind. Whether it is a small unit leader or a Wing commander, Marines remember those who dedicate themselves to guiding and mentoring with a selfless attitude. U.S. Marine Corps Col. Jeremie N. Hester, the outgoing commanding officer of Marine Aircraft Group 39, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing is one example of the leadership described.
Since taking command in 2023, Col. Hester has modernized and improved the lethality of MAG-39 by overseeing the transfer and reintegration of 149 aircraft and fielding new weapon systems and technology. This allowed the group to be more operationally ready for any mission. On top of that, the entire H-1 aircraft fleet logged over 60,000 flight hours under his leadership; this was more than twenty-three percent of all Marine Corps aviation hours in that period. Doing this increased the technical profieciency of pilots and air crew. MAG-39 is ready to fly in any climb or place.
Beyond the group achievments within the United States, his Marines deployed around the globe. Marines across MAG-39 executed three Unit Deployment Program rotations to Okinawa, Japan, supported over 2,000 flight hours in support of Crisis Response Africa, and deployed across the Indo-Pacific with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit while supporting nine large scale exercises. The drive and leadership of Col. Hester allowed the aviation goals of the Marine Corps to become reality.
Col. Hester also influenced the Marine Corps’ goals of retention. During the fiscal year retention program, MAG-39 had 122% retention. He built a culture that Marines wanted to be a part of.
“[Col. Hester] led from the front, personally investing in the development of his people,” said Maj. Gen. James B. Wellons, commanding general, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing. “He never sought the spotlight, but his impact is impossible to miss.”
As Marines look at their leaders, they think of the mark that is leave behind. Those who have served at MAG-39 under Col. Hester do not need to look hard. His dedication and achievements during his time as the MAG-39 commanding officer has left a mark that will influence both the Marines and Marine aviation for years to come.
| Date Taken: | 07.03.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 07.09.2025 15:55 |
| Story ID: | 522866 |
| Location: | MARINE CORPS AIR STATION MIRAMAR, CALIFORNIA, US |
| Web Views: | 29 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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