“His exceptionally strong leadership and organizational skills, extensive military experiences, perseverance under harsh conditions, and ability to train others helped him navigate the complicated political environment during his assignments in Southeast Asia.”

Remembering CIA’s African American Heroes
CIA website

April 28, 2026 — Wilbur M. Greene passed away from complications following a gallbladder operation at Udorn Royal Thai Air Force Base on April 28, 1972. Follow us on Twitter: @INTEL_TODAY.

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Early Life and Education

Wilbur Murray Greene, known as “Will,” was born on September 5, 1930, and grew up in a small town in South Carolina.

Military Service

In 1947, Greene joined the U.S. Special Forces. He served in both the Korean and Vietnam Wars and learned Vietnamese while deployed in Vietnam.

Joining the CIA

In 1967, Greene began a new chapter in his career as a Paramilitary Officer within the Special Activities Division of the CIA.

After joining the CIA’s Directorate of Operations, he underwent intensive training and deployed overseas in March 1968.

Greene passed away from complications following a gallbladder operation at Udorn Royal Thai Air Force Base on April 28, 1972.

At the time, he was serving his second tour of duty as Chief of Paramilitary Operations. He was 41 years old.

Legacy

In 2008, Greene’s exceptional leadership as a Paramilitary Case Officer was honored during a Black History Month ceremony at CIA Headquarters, recognizing his contributions to the Special Activities Division and his legacy within the CIA.

Memorial Wall and Book of Honor

In 1974, Greene was posthumously honored with one of the original 31 stars on the CIA Memorial Wall at the Agency’s headquarters. His star was nameless in the original Book of Honor.

References

“Wilbur Will Greene.” Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia.

“Remembering CIA’s African American Heroes.” Central Intelligence Agency, 2014.

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CIA Memorial Wall — Star 29 : Wilbur M. Greene (Thailand – April 28, 1972)