| Intro | South african air force general |
| Is | Military leader |
| From | South Africa |
| Type | Military |
| Gender | male |
| Birth |
26 May 1942, East London, Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, Eastern Cape, South Africa |
| Age | 78 years |
| Star sign | Gemini |
Lieutenant General Willem Hendrik Hechter SSA SD SM MMM (born 26 May 1942, East London) is a former Chief of the South African Air Force.
Military career
He joined the SAAF in January 1960 and received his wings in December 1960 at Central Flying School, Dunnottar.
He served as Officer Commanding Advanced Flying School, Pietersburg and 1 Squadron before serving as Staff Officer Fighters and Senior Staff Officer Fighters at Air Force Headquarters.
He commanded AFB Pietersburg before serving as Director Force Preparation, Chief of Air Staff Operations and Chief of Air Staff.
He was appointed Chief of the Air Force from 1 May 1996.
Aircraft flown
He flew the following aircraft:
- Harvard
- De Havilland Vampire
- Impala
- Canadair Sabre Mk.6
- Mirage III
- Mirage F1CZ
Awards and Decorations
Lt Gen Hechter was awarded the following:
- Star of South Africa, Silver (SSAS)
- Southern Cross Decoration (SD)
- Southern Cross Medal (SM)
- Military Merit Medal (MMM)
- Pilots Wings (2500+ hrs) badge