BEDFORD — World War II veteran and local author James Lee Hutchinson is set to celebrate his 100th birthday in exactly one month, marking a significant milestone for the Bedford resident. Hutchinson, who turns 100 on June 12, 2025, served as a technical sergeant during the war from 1943 to 1945.
Growing up in Bedford during the Great Depression, Hutchinson later chronicled his experiences in his books. He is a proud graduate of Bedford Public Schools and Indiana University, where he earned three degrees. For 37 years, until his retirement in 1987, Hutchinson dedicated his career to education, serving as a teacher, principal, and assistant superintendent within the Bedford school system.
In his retirement, Hutchinson has focused on preserving the stories of his fellow veterans. He has penned several books, including “The Boys in the B-17” and “B-17 Memories,” and has compiled the works of others who served. Also notably, his book “On Leatherwood Creek” chronicles his life as a boy in the great depression in Bedford. His current motto, “Knowledge for the young – Memories for the old,” reflects his dedication to sharing the experiences of the “Greatest Generation.”
Hutchinson’s commitment to his fellow veterans was evident at a D-Day anniversary celebration in June 2024, where he addressed a gathering of veterans, emphasizing the importance of their continued organization and recognition.
As his 100th birthday approaches on June 12, 2025, Hutchinson stands as a testament to a life of service, dedication to education, and a passion for preserving the stories of those who fought for freedom.
