Allen James Greer

A fearless leader in the jungles of the Philippines. A veteran of four American conflicts. A soldier whose military career spanned more than four decades. Colonel Allen James Greer earned the Medal of Honor for extraordinary heroism during the Philippine Insurrection and went on to serve the United States Army from the Spanish-American War through the early years of the Second World War.

Born on October 21, 1878, in Nashville, Tennessee, Greer first entered military service with the 4th Tennessee Volunteer Infantry during the Spanish-American War. Although his regiment arrived after major combat operations had concluded, it performed occupation duty in Cuba before he accepted a commission in the Regular Army. In February 1899, he was appointed a Second Lieutenant in the 39th U.S. Volunteer Infantry, beginning a distinguished professional military career that would span more than 40 years.

Greer achieved lasting fame during the Philippine Insurrection. On July 2, 1901, near Majada, Laguna Province, he voluntarily led a small detachment against a well-entrenched Filipino position under intense enemy fire. His courageous leadership and personal example inspired his men to overrun the enemy defenses and secure the position. For this conspicuous gallantry beyond the call of duty, he received the Medal of Honor. His official citation reads:

"Charged, with 12 men, a body of insurgents strongly entrenched and routed them, driving them from their position and inflicting heavy loss."

Throughout his long military career, Greer served during the Spanish-American War, the Philippine Insurrection, the Mexican Punitive Expedition, and World War I. During the First World War, he served in France as Chief of Staff of the 92nd Division, contributing to the American Expeditionary Forces during one of the most significant conflicts in modern history. His extensive service also continued into the national defense buildup preceding America's entry into the Second World War before he retired from active duty in 1940.

Colonel Allen James Greer passed away on March 26, 1964, and was laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery, where his grave stands as a lasting tribute to a lifetime of distinguished military service. His Medal of Honor remains the defining recognition of a career marked by courage, leadership, and unwavering dedication to the United States Army.