John Allen Hilger (11 January 1909 – 3 February 1982) was a brigadier general in the United States Air Force.

He was assigned to the 89th Reconnaissance Squadron as commander in May 1940; flying North American B-25 Mitchell bombers on anti-submarine patrols from December 1941.

He served as the Chief of the United States element for the NATO planning group LIVE OAK, before his retirement from the Air Force on 30 November 1966.

After completing his training, he earned his wings and was officially commissioned within the active duty ranks of the Air Corps in February 1934.

He continued to serve at McChord Field, operating North American B-25 Mitchell bombers during anti-submarine patrols until February 1942.

He was selected for this role by Doolittle based on the recommendation of Lt. Col. William C. Mills, the commanding officer of the 17th Bombardment Group, who regarded Hilger as a meticulous and serious individual.

On June 27, General Hap Arnold awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross to Hilger along with twenty-two other airmen at Bolling Field, Washington D.C.

[2][8] During the Korean War, Hilger assumed command of the 307th Bomb Group, which was stationed at Kadena Air Base in Okinawa, where they flew B-29 Superfortress in combat missions.

Additionally, Hilger took on roles within the 307th Bomb Wing staff and later commanded the 307th BW at Kadena AFB from December 1950 to April 1951.

In October 1956, he received a promotion to the rank of brigadier general and continued to lead the operational test center until June 1957.

In accordance with his wishes, his remains were cremated and his ashes were scattered in the Pacific Ocean, close to the coast of Newport Beach, California.

[12] During his lengthy career, Hilger earned many decorations, including:[13] This article incorporates public domain material from the United States Air Force