[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 37 (Thursday, February 29, 2024)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E196]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           CELEBRATING GENERAL EDWARD GREER'S 100TH BIRTHDAY

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. VERONICA ESCOBAR

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, February 29, 2024

  Ms. ESCOBAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to the distinguished 
life and extraordinary military career of General Edward Greer, a 
remarkable individual whose legacy has left an indelible mark on our 
nation, as he approaches his 100th birthday.
  Born in the coal-mining town of Gary, West Virginia, General Greer's 
journey began at West Virginia State College in 1942, where he enrolled 
during an era of racial segregation. However, his education was 
interrupted by World War II, leading him to serve in the 777th Field 
Artillery Battalion, an all-Black unit. By the war's end, he had risen 
to the esteemed rank of Master Sergeant. Returning to civilian life, 
General Greer resumed his studies at West Virginia State College, where 
he met and married Jewell Means. Their union, forged on May 31, 1948, 
endured for more than 72 years.
  Commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Regular Army in 1940, 
General Greer sought stability in the military, serving with 
distinction for 33 years. His early assignments in Japan coincided with 
the outbreak of the Korean War, where he earned the Silver Star for 
valor. Promoted through the ranks, General Greer's military career 
traversed Germany. Oklahoma, Kansas, and the Pentagon, witnessing the 
Army's integration and earning promotions to Major, Lieutenant Colonel, 
and Colonel. His family grew to include three children: Michael, 
Kenneth, and Gail.
  In 1970, Colonel Greer served in Vietnam before becoming a 
trailblazer in military history. Selected for promotion to Brigadier 
General in 1972, he joined an esteemed group of Black officers, 
contributing to the integration of the Army's general officer ranks. 
Retiring in 1976 after 33 years of dedicated service, General Greer 
made El Paso his home. With his beloved wife Jewell, he became an 
active member of the community, engaging in real estate sales and 
contributing to various civic boards.
  The Greers' post-Army life was a testament to their commitment to 
service and community. It is with profound gratitude and respect that 
we honor General Edward Greer's legacy, a legacy that exemplifies the 
highest ideals of duty, honor, and love for our great nation, and wish 
him a very happy 100th birthday.

                          ____________________