United States of America
Headstone of Walter Henry Kesterson

Walter Henry Kesterson

Died February 4, 1946

Walter Henry Kesterson.

How He Died
Manner Homicide
Cause Gunshot wound
Mechanism Firearm
What Happened

Policeman Walter Kesterson was shot and killed by two suspects after he and his partner responded to a robbery call. Both suspects were shot and killed by Policeman Kesterson after he was shot. The two men were wanted for the January 31, 1946, murder of Officer Richard Pennington, of the Vernon Police Department. Officer Pennington was shot and killed after arresting the two men for leading him on a vehicle chase. Policeman Kesterson was posthumously awarded the department's Medal of Valor award in 2007.

Media
Walter Henry Kesterson
Walter Henry Kesterson 0 views
Service Record
Also Served
Los Angeles Police Department
Policeman
Memorials
National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Panel 19W · Line 10 cut as W H KESTERSON
In Our Keeping
Permanent identifier neuraspine_01krbxtn1max0vmmd7856cd10j
Record added August 2, 2026 neuraweb.nw
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Last updated August 2, 2026

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In tribute

I served 1985 to 1993. You served too, before the badge - different uniform, same idea. You go where you are sent and you do not get to pick the call.

Policeman Kesterson gave the Los Angeles Police Department 18 years.

Thank you for your service to the Los Angeles community, and for your service before it. Gone but never to be forgotten.

Rest easy, brother.

— S. Vincent Anthony, U.S. Army 1985-1993

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