Was well known before the war as one of the best school teachers in Polk County, and remarkable as a good disciplinarian. He wrote a great many communications for the "Iowa School Journal" during the years 1859 and 1860. He was well educated, and self-educated. He had been a factory-boy in his native State, Connecticut; came West, and was rapidly working his way up to influence and usefulness. He enlisted Nov. 9, 1861. Says Captain Studer: —
"Greene exhibited, from the day of enlistment, great inclination to become a good and thorough soldier in all the branches. During his leisure hours, unlike most other soldiers, he studied tactics and army regulations. His conduct was exemplary, and he was a good scholar; hence he was made sergeant. He remained with his company from the day he entered the field, conducting himself well on the field of battle, on the march, and in every kind of duty. Owing to his scholarship, he often rendered valuable service in the company. He took part in the battles of Shiloh, Corinth, and several skirmishes. Was promoted to first sergeant Nov. 1, 1862, but had acted as such for a considerable time previous. When the second lieutenancy became vacant, Captain Studer recommended Sergeant Greene for the position, which he received, to date Dec. 17, 1862; but it did not go into effect before March 19, 1863. He was with his company all through the siege of Vicksburg. After the fall of that city, he obtained leave of absence to go to Iowa; but on his way home he was taken sick at St. Louis, and was sent to the hospital of the Sisters of Charity, where he expired Aug. 20, 1863. He was a true patriot and soldier, and as such should always be remembered."
SOURCE: Leonard Brown, American Patriotism: Or, Memoirs Of Common Men, p. 225-6
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