GREEN, HENRY R.

Gunnery Sergeant Henry Green entered into eternal sleep in the early morning hours of November 5th, 2015 at Bay Pines Healthcare Center. He was 95.

Henry was one of the first to land on Guadalcanal as a member of the First Marine Raider Battalion (Edson’s Raiders) and distinguished himself during the battle known as “Bloody Ridge” on the nights of 13-14 September 1942. It was here that he earned the Navy Cross for “extraordinary bravery in the line of duty for driving back a devastating attack by the enemy.”

During the battle, Henry’s closest friend died at this side. Henry took over the machine gun and continued to fire throughout the night at “anything that moved.” He was wounded three times; once in each arm and one stomach wound, which would eventually earn him the Purple Heart with two stars.

In addition to Guadalcanal, Henry saw action on Florida, an island off of Guadalcanal, Bougainville and Tulagi in the Solomon Islands.

Henry was proud of his military service, beginning his Marine Corps service in 1940 as a Private and discharged 6 years later as a Gunnery Sergeant.

Following his discharge, Henry went to work with his father-in-law at H&H Auto Parts Company in Canton, Ohio. Within a few years, he became president and built the business from one to two very successful stores; something he was always so proud of!

In 2002, Henry retired to Florida, first to Ft. Myers and then to St. Petersburg, where he resided for the later years of his life.

His distinguished and honorable service includes commendations: Navy Cross, Purple Heart with two stars, Combat Action, Presidential Unit Award, Good Conduct, American Defense, American Campaign, Asiatic Pacific Campaign and WWII Victory ribbons.

Please reach out to Henry’s family during this difficult time to share your love and support.

Historian’s note: We cannot confirm that Sergeant Green was awarded the Navy Cross.