Kevin Leslie Greene was born on October 13, 1948, to Eunice and John Greene. His home of record is Lakewood, NJ. Kevin had one sister, Melanie. Greene attended Lakewood High School before enlisting in the US Army.

Greene began basic training at Fort Dix, NJ, on December 13, 1966, and received artillery training in Oklahoma before he was sent to Vietnam in May 1967. He served a one-year tour of duty in the war zone and signed up for a second tour while still in Vietnam. In May 1968, he came home for a 35-day leave. He returned to active duty in June to begin his second tour. Greene attained the rank of Sergeant (SGT).

Greene was serving as a door gunner on a helicopter with the 9th Infantry Division, when he was killed in action on September 27, 1968.

With the notification of his death, the family was told that his helicopter was hit by enemy guns, caught fire and crashed into a river. Greene drowned after the crash. The fatal crash occurred in Kien Hoa Province, South Vietnam. His body was recovered and returned home from Saigon for burial.

As a result of his efforts during an earlier mission, February 1 – 5, 1968, he received the Army Commendation Medal for Heroism, while serving as Radio-Telephone Operator with Battery G, 2nd Battalion, 4th Artillery, 9th Infantry Division, near Bin Tre, Vietnam.

The commendation, signed by Colonel Robert Baden, chief of staff, stated:
Despite intensive hostile fire, Greene showed aggressive determination in the successful defense of his position, and the repulsion of the determined insurgent force.

Greene’s “heroic actions” were cited as:
In keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 9th Infantry Division and the US Army.

Sources: The Greene Family and NJVVMF.
12/17/2024