Cecil Greene

MAJOR GENERAL CECIL WINFIELD GREENE (RET)

age 78 of Birmingham passed away at home June 15, 2009. He was born November 26, 1930 in Gadsden, Alabama. Cecil is preceded in death by his parents, Olen Sr. and Jessie Greene, his brothers, Buron Greene and Olen Greene, Jr. He is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, the former Lucille M. Zimpelman; his daughters, Becky Greene and Brenda Witte (Johnny); Granddaughter, Ashley Witte; grandson, Carleton Witte and a host of loving family members and friends.

Cecil began his military career in June 1954 after being commissioned from the Air Force ROTC from Auburn University. He entered active duty in December 1954 and entered the Alabama Air National Guard in May 1959. During his Air Guard career, he served in various flying and command assignments including Group Commander, Director of Operations and Wing Vice Commander. In April 1983, he was very proud to be appointed Commander of the 117th Tactical Reconnaissance Wing. He ended his career as Chief of Staff, Headquarters, Montgomery. Even though he achieved the rank of Major General, he was a shining example of how to work with people rather than command.

Cecil was a member of the National Guard Association of Alabama and the U.S. and the American Legion, Past President i�½" National Guard Association, Air Force Association; Chairman i�½" Alabama Aviation Hall of Fame; Board of Directors i�½" Southern Museum of Flight, Birmingham Aero Club and Trussville Chamber of Commerce.

After retiring Cecil still enjoyed flying, going fishing with his friends and spending time at Lake Guntersville with his family. Services will be Friday, June 19 at 2pm in the chapel with burial in Jefferson Memorial Gardens Trussville. Visitation will be from 5pm until 7pm Thursday. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to the Southern Museum of Flight, 4343 73rd Street North, Birmingham, AL 35206.