Walter Augustus Bethel facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Walter Augustus Bethel
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Brigadier general Walter Bethel in September 1918 in Chaumont
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| Born | November 25, 1866 Freeport, Ohio |
| Died | January 11, 1954 (aged 87) |
| Allegiance |  United States of America |
| Service/ |
 United States Army |
| Rank |  Major General |
| Commands held | Judge Advocate General of the United States Army |
| Other work | lawyer |
Walter Augustus Bethel was an American army officer who became a Major general during World War I. He was born on November 25, 1866, and passed away on January 11, 1954.
Contents
Early Life and Education
Walter Bethel was born in Freeport, Ohio. He attended the United States Military Academy, also known as West Point. He graduated in 1889, ranking 14th in his class.
Military Career
Bethel first joined the artillery branch of the army. Later, he moved to the Judge Advocate General's Department. This department provides legal advice to the army.
From 1884 to 1885, he taught chemistry at West Point. Then, from 1895 to 1899, he taught law there. In 1898, he was part of the Puerto Rican Expedition.
World War I Service
On August 5, 1917, Bethel was promoted to brigadier general. He served as the Judge Advocate General from 1917 to 1920. This was a very important legal role during World War I.
After the war, he continued working at the Judge Advocate General's headquarters in Washington, D.C. In 1923, Bethel became the Judge Advocate General of the entire army. At this time, he was given the rank of major general.
Retirement and Later Work
In 1924, Walter Bethel retired from the army because of poor eyesight. After retiring, he became a lawyer. From 1926 to 1947, he worked in international law. This type of law deals with rules between different countries.
Awards and Recognition
For his important work during World War I, Walter Bethel received the Army Distinguished Service Medal. This is a high honor given for outstanding service.
Later Life
Walter Augustus Bethel died when he was eighty-seven years old. He passed away on January 11, 1954.
