FORT JACKSON, S.C. – Chaplain William “Bill” Green Jr. was formally promoted to major general as the 26th U.S. Army Chief of Chaplains, at the U.S. Army Institute for Religious Leadership on March 15. The ceremony was hosted by Gen. Gary M. Brito, the commanding general for the U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command.
Green was officially promoted by the U.S. Army Chief of Staff, General Randy George, in an impromptu ceremony on Dec. 7, 2023, in Washington, D.C., along with seven other general officers. Green’s formal promotion ceremony at Fort Jackson allows his family, friends, and colleagues the opportunity to celebrate this long-awaited achievement.
“As many of you know, this is not just a promotion to a new rank,” Brito said. “This is to formally and fully enable Bill Green to execute the monumental importance of the Office of the Chief of Chaplains where he will continue to lead the efforts of our entire Chaplain Corps, by ministering to the spiritual, emotional, and mental needs of our Soldiers, their families, and our lay professionals.”
In his remarks, Green thanked his family, mentors, and colleagues for their contribution to his success. He thanked Gen. Brito for hosting the ceremony: “The Chaplain Corps is absolutely honored that you would host today's event,” Green said, “and become an even more integral part of our legacy and history.”
“I’d like to first give honor to God, my Lord and savior Jesus Christ who has called me to this ministry, and to this profession, to care for and love, to walk with, honor, respect, and not to judge, his people,” Green said. “Today is about saying thank you to so many individuals who have invested in me and in us along the way. I can truly say that this military journey has changed my life. It all started with the love and support of my parents. My mom was my first drill sergeant. I joined the Army when she told me I was not going to stay here.
“Like a turtle at the top of the fence post, I know that I did not reach this position by myself,” Green continued. “Many of you in this room have coached me, taught me, mentored me, encouraged me, and led me to be a better person and live a better life. I am so thankful because I am also both personally and professionally thankful for the religious affairs specialists I have served with in the past and continue to serve with at both war and during peacetime.
“During my time, I’ve been blessed with chaplains on my team who displayed a high level of confidence and service to live their call. I’ve had the experience of having capable teammates at every level. I will never forget Rev. Benjamin Williams because he taught me how to be a chaplain before I entered the Corps. He taught me how to work with all congregations, showing love and support for others.
“I am thankful to God for allowing me to serve this great nation,” Green said concluding his remarks.
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