Funeral held for Tenn. soldier killed in Fort Hood shooting spree

Funeral held for Tenn. soldier killed in Fort Hood shooting spree

 By HARLOW SUMERFORD
6 News Reporter

KNOXVILLE (WATE) -- Family and friends said farewell Wednesday to Army Spec. Fred Greene, 29, of Mountain City, who was gunned down with 12 others earlier in November in a shooting rampage at Fort Hood, Texas.

Wednesday's graveside service for Spec. Greene was relatively small, but friends and family say it's probably the way he would've wanted it.

The man they knew as Freddy was a quiet person with a big heart.

Surrounded by soldiers, Spec. Greene's wife and two young daughters attended the service at Bakers Gap Baptist Church.

Defense Secretary Robert Gates was seated with family members as Spec. Greene's commanding officer spoke of his fallen friend.

"Fred was an outstanding soldier who was known by many as the quiet professional. He was a soldier you could rely on when difficult tasks were at hand. He was trained and proficient in his warrior skills and was an absolute vital member of my team," Capt. James Pence said.

Greene was also a vital member of his church and the Mountain City community. As family members were presented with American flags, Capt. Pence eloquently summarized the mood. 

"I don't know why this tragic event happened. I do know that the world and the 510th Clearance Company has lost a true hero," Capt. Pence said.

Greene, a combat engineer, was preparing for service in Afghanistan, a mission his fellow soldiers will undertake without him. They do so with heavy hearts.

"Fred, thank you for touching our lives. We will never forget you. God speed in your journey," Capt. Pence said.

The news of Greene's death was a shock to the community. Many say they never expected the soldier to be killed by another member of the military.

His high school friend Banian Banner says it will take some time to heal. "Everybody in this community loved Fred and it really hurt me because I loved him, too. We had shop class together in school, wood work and classes like that. He is just a great fella to be around."

Spec. Greene accumulated a number of awards while serving in the Army, including the National Defense Service Medal and a Global War on Terror Medal.