
In 1946, Gregg’s parents signed a waiver allowing him to enlist in the Army at the age of 17. With the Army still segregated at the time, Gregg faced challenges but persisted in his military career. After completing basic training, he was assigned to a unit in Germany as a medical laboratory technician but there were no jobs there for Black soldiers, so he was transferred to be a unit supply clerk in an all-Black unit of the Quartermaster Corps.
Gregg was promoted several times over the next three years before becoming an officer. After being commissioned as a 2nd Lt. in 1950, Gregg was assigned to an all-Black service unit at Fort Lee, Virginia. Four years later in 1954, the Army became fully integrated.
Gregg would go on to assume command of the 96th Quartermaster Direct Support Battalion in South Vietnam where he would be awarded the Meritorious Unit Citation as well as the Legion of Merit.
In 1972, Gregg was promoted to Brigadier General and in 1976, Major General. In 1977, former President Jimmy Carter selected Gregg to be the Director of Logistics for the Joint Chief of Staff where Gregg worked hard to improve the readiness of the armed forces in this position. Carter also approved Gregg’s nomination to Lieutenant General, which made Gregg the first Black three-star general in the U.S. Army.
After 35-years in the Army, Gregg retired in 1981. In 2023, Gregg became the only living person in modern history to have an Army installation bear his name when Fort Lee was renamed Fort Gregg-Adams. The base was named for Gregg as well as Lt. Col. Charity Adams Early – highest-ranking Black woman to serve as an Army officer in World War II.
Gregg’s awards include the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, Distinguished Service Medal and Legion of Merit (2 oak leaf clusters).
(U.S. Army photo by Elizabeth Fraser / Arlington National Cemetery / released) (Photo Credit: Elizabeth Fraser) VIEW ORIGINAL

In 1946, Gregg’s parents signed a waiver allowing him to enlist in the Army at the age of 17. With the Army still segregated at the time, Gregg faced challenges but persisted in his military career. After completing basic training, he was assigned to a unit in Germany as a medical laboratory technician but there were no jobs there for Black soldiers, so he was transferred to be a unit supply clerk in an all-Black unit of the Quartermaster Corps.
Gregg was promoted several times over the next three years before becoming an officer. After being commissioned as a 2nd Lt. in 1950, Gregg was assigned to an all-Black service unit at Fort Lee, Virginia. Four years later in 1954, the Army became fully integrated.
Gregg would go on to assume command of the 96th Quartermaster Direct Support Battalion in South Vietnam where he would be awarded the Meritorious Unit Citation as well as the Legion of Merit.
In 1972, Gregg was promoted to Brigadier General and in 1976, Major General. In 1977, former President Jimmy Carter selected Gregg to be the Director of Logistics for the Joint Chief of Staff where Gregg worked hard to improve the readiness of the armed forces in this position. Carter also approved Gregg’s nomination to Lieutenant General, which made Gregg the first Black three-star general in the U.S. Army.
After 35-years in the Army, Gregg retired in 1981. In 2023, Gregg became the only living person in modern history to have an Army installation bear his name when Fort Lee was renamed Fort Gregg-Adams. The base was named for Gregg as well as Lt. Col. Charity Adams Early – highest-ranking Black woman to serve as an Army officer in World War II.
Gregg’s awards include the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, Distinguished Service Medal and Legion of Merit (2 oak leaf clusters). Gregg’s daughter, Alicia Gail-Collier, received the U.S. flag from his funeral service.
(U.S. Army photo by Elizabeth Fraser / Arlington National Cemetery / released) (Photo Credit: Elizabeth Fraser) VIEW ORIGINAL

In 1946, Gregg’s parents signed a waiver allowing him to enlist in the Army at the age of 17. With the Army still segregated at the time, Gregg faced challenges but persisted in his military career. After completing basic training, he was assigned to a unit in Germany as a medical laboratory technician but there were no jobs there for Black soldiers, so he was transferred to be a unit supply clerk in an all-Black unit of the Quartermaster Corps.
Gregg was promoted several times over the next three years before becoming an officer. After being commissioned as a 2nd Lt. in 1950, Gregg was assigned to an all-Black service unit at Fort Lee, Virginia. Four years later in 1954, the Army became fully integrated.
Gregg would go on to assume command of the 96th Quartermaster Direct Support Battalion in South Vietnam where he would be awarded the Meritorious Unit Citation as well as the Legion of Merit.
In 1972, Gregg was promoted to Brigadier General and in 1976, Major General. In 1977, former President Jimmy Carter selected Gregg to be the Director of Logistics for the Joint Chief of Staff where Gregg worked hard to improve the readiness of the armed forces in this position. Carter also approved Gregg’s nomination to Lieutenant General, which made Gregg the first Black three-star general in the U.S. Army.
After 35-years in the Army, Gregg retired in 1981. In 2023, Gregg became the only living person in modern history to have an Army installation bear his name when Fort Lee was renamed Fort Gregg-Adams. The base was named for Gregg as well as Lt. Col. Charity Adams Early – highest-ranking Black woman to serve as an Army officer in World War II.
Gregg’s awards include the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, Distinguished Service Medal and Legion of Merit (2 oak leaf clusters). Gregg’s daughter, Alicia Gail-Collier, received the U.S. flag from his funeral service.
(U.S. Army photo by Elizabeth Fraser / Arlington National Cemetery / released) (Photo Credit: Elizabeth Fraser) VIEW ORIGINAL

In 1946, Gregg’s parents signed a waiver allowing him to enlist in the Army at the age of 17. With the Army still segregated at the time, Gregg faced challenges but persisted in his military career. After completing basic training, he was assigned to a unit in Germany as a medical laboratory technician but there were no jobs there for Black soldiers, so he was transferred to be a unit supply clerk in an all-Black unit of the Quartermaster Corps.
Gregg was promoted several times over the next three years before becoming an officer. After being commissioned as a 2nd Lt. in 1950, Gregg was assigned to an all-Black service unit at Fort Lee, Virginia. Four years later in 1954, the Army became fully integrated.
Gregg would go on to assume command of the 96th Quartermaster Direct Support Battalion in South Vietnam where he would be awarded the Meritorious Unit Citation as well as the Legion of Merit.
In 1972, Gregg was promoted to Brigadier General and in 1976, Major General. In 1977, former President Jimmy Carter selected Gregg to be the Director of Logistics for the Joint Chief of Staff where Gregg worked hard to improve the readiness of the armed forces in this position. Carter also approved Gregg’s nomination to Lieutenant General, which made Gregg the first Black three-star general in the U.S. Army.
After 35-years in the Army, Gregg retired in 1981. In 2023, Gregg became the only living person in modern history to have an Army installation bear his name when Fort Lee was renamed Fort Gregg-Adams. The base was named for Gregg as well as Lt. Col. Charity Adams Early – highest-ranking Black woman to serve as an Army officer in World War II.
Gregg’s awards include the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, Distinguished Service Medal and Legion of Merit (2 oak leaf clusters). Gregg’s daughter, Alicia Gail-Collier, received the U.S. flag from his funeral service.
(U.S. Army photo by Elizabeth Fraser / Arlington National Cemetery / released) (Photo Credit: Elizabeth Fraser) VIEW ORIGINAL

In 1946, Gregg’s parents signed a waiver allowing him to enlist in the Army at the age of 17. With the Army still segregated at the time, Gregg faced challenges but persisted in his military career. After completing basic training, he was assigned to a unit in Germany as a medical laboratory technician but there were no jobs there for Black soldiers, so he was transferred to be a unit supply clerk in an all-Black unit of the Quartermaster Corps.
Gregg was promoted several times over the next three years before becoming an officer. After being commissioned as a 2nd Lt. in 1950, Gregg was assigned to an all-Black service unit at Fort Lee, Virginia. Four years later in 1954, the Army became fully integrated.
Gregg would go on to assume command of the 96th Quartermaster Direct Support Battalion in South Vietnam where he would be awarded the Meritorious Unit Citation as well as the Legion of Merit.
In 1972, Gregg was promoted to Brigadier General and in 1976, Major General. In 1977, former President Jimmy Carter selected Gregg to be the Director of Logistics for the Joint Chief of Staff where Gregg worked hard to improve the readiness of the armed forces in this position. Carter also approved Gregg’s nomination to Lieutenant General, which made Gregg the first Black three-star general in the U.S. Army.
After 35-years in the Army, Gregg retired in 1981. In 2023, Gregg became the only living person in modern history to have an Army installation bear his name when Fort Lee was renamed Fort Gregg-Adams. The base was named for Gregg as well as Lt. Col. Charity Adams Early – highest-ranking Black woman to serve as an Army officer in World War II.
Gregg’s awards include the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, Distinguished Service Medal and Legion of Merit (2 oak leaf clusters). Gregg’s daughter, Alicia Gail-Collier, received the U.S. flag from his funeral service.
(U.S. Army photo by Elizabeth Fraser / Arlington National Cemetery / released) (Photo Credit: Elizabeth Fraser) VIEW ORIGINAL

In 1946, Gregg’s parents signed a waiver allowing him to enlist in the Army at the age of 17. With the Army still segregated at the time, Gregg faced challenges but persisted in his military career. After completing basic training, he was assigned to a unit in Germany as a medical laboratory technician but there were no jobs there for Black soldiers, so he was transferred to be a unit supply clerk in an all-Black unit of the Quartermaster Corps.
Gregg was promoted several times over the next three years before becoming an officer. After being commissioned as a 2nd Lt. in 1950, Gregg was assigned to an all-Black service unit at Fort Lee, Virginia. Four years later in 1954, the Army became fully integrated.
Gregg would go on to assume command of the 96th Quartermaster Direct Support Battalion in South Vietnam where he would be awarded the Meritorious Unit Citation as well as the Legion of Merit.
In 1972, Gregg was promoted to Brigadier General and in 1976, Major General. In 1977, former President Jimmy Carter selected Gregg to be the Director of Logistics for the Joint Chief of Staff where Gregg worked hard to improve the readiness of the armed forces in this position. Carter also approved Gregg’s nomination to Lieutenant General, which made Gregg the first Black three-star general in the U.S. Army.
After 35-years in the Army, Gregg retired in 1981. In 2023, Gregg became the only living person in modern history to have an Army installation bear his name when Fort Lee was renamed Fort Gregg-Adams. The base was named for Gregg as well as Lt. Col. Charity Adams Early – highest-ranking Black woman to serve as an Army officer in World War II.
Gregg’s awards include the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, Distinguished Service Medal and Legion of Merit (2 oak leaf clusters). Gregg’s daughter, Alicia Gail-Collier, received the U.S. flag from his funeral service.
(U.S. Army photo by Elizabeth Fraser / Arlington National Cemetery / released) (Photo Credit: Elizabeth Fraser) VIEW ORIGINAL

In 1946, Gregg’s parents signed a waiver allowing him to enlist in the Army at the age of 17. With the Army still segregated at the time, Gregg faced challenges but persisted in his military career. After completing basic training, he was assigned to a unit in Germany as a medical laboratory technician but there were no jobs there for Black soldiers, so he was transferred to be a unit supply clerk in an all-Black unit of the Quartermaster Corps.
Gregg was promoted several times over the next three years before becoming an officer. After being commissioned as a 2nd Lt. in 1950, Gregg was assigned to an all-Black service unit at Fort Lee, Virginia. Four years later in 1954, the Army became fully integrated.
Gregg would go on to assume command of the 96th Quartermaster Direct Support Battalion in South Vietnam where he would be awarded the Meritorious Unit Citation as well as the Legion of Merit.
In 1972, Gregg was promoted to Brigadier General and in 1976, Major General. In 1977, former President Jimmy Carter selected Gregg to be the Director of Logistics for the Joint Chief of Staff where Gregg worked hard to improve the readiness of the armed forces in this position. Carter also approved Gregg’s nomination to Lieutenant General, which made Gregg the first Black three-star general in the U.S. Army.
After 35-years in the Army, Gregg retired in 1981. In 2023, Gregg became the only living person in modern history to have an Army installation bear his name when Fort Lee was renamed Fort Gregg-Adams. The base was named for Gregg as well as Lt. Col. Charity Adams Early – highest-ranking Black woman to serve as an Army officer in World War II.
Gregg’s awards include the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, Distinguished Service Medal and Legion of Merit (2 oak leaf clusters). Gregg’s daughter, Alicia Gail-Collier, received the U.S. flag from his funeral service.
(U.S. Army photo by Elizabeth Fraser / Arlington National Cemetery / released) (Photo Credit: Elizabeth Fraser) VIEW ORIGINAL

In 1946, Gregg’s parents signed a waiver allowing him to enlist in the Army at the age of 17. With the Army still segregated at the time, Gregg faced challenges but persisted in his military career. After completing basic training, he was assigned to a unit in Germany as a medical laboratory technician but there were no jobs there for Black soldiers, so he was transferred to be a unit supply clerk in an all-Black unit of the Quartermaster Corps.
Gregg was promoted several times over the next three years before becoming an officer. After being commissioned as a 2nd Lt. in 1950, Gregg was assigned to an all-Black service unit at Fort Lee, Virginia. Four years later in 1954, the Army became fully integrated.
Gregg would go on to assume command of the 96th Quartermaster Direct Support Battalion in South Vietnam where he would be awarded the Meritorious Unit Citation as well as the Legion of Merit.
In 1972, Gregg was promoted to Brigadier General and in 1976, Major General. In 1977, former President Jimmy Carter selected Gregg to be the Director of Logistics for the Joint Chief of Staff where Gregg worked hard to improve the readiness of the armed forces in this position. Carter also approved Gregg’s nomination to Lieutenant General, which made Gregg the first Black three-star general in the U.S. Army.
After 35-years in the Army, Gregg retired in 1981. In 2023, Gregg became the only living person in modern history to have an Army installation bear his name when Fort Lee was renamed Fort Gregg-Adams. The base was named for Gregg as well as Lt. Col. Charity Adams Early – highest-ranking Black woman to serve as an Army officer in World War II.
Gregg’s awards include the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, Distinguished Service Medal and Legion of Merit (2 oak leaf clusters). Gregg’s daughter, Alicia Gail-Collier, received the U.S. flag from his funeral service.
(U.S. Army photo by Elizabeth Fraser / Arlington National Cemetery / released) (Photo Credit: Elizabeth Fraser) VIEW ORIGINAL

In 1946, Gregg’s parents signed a waiver allowing him to enlist in the Army at the age of 17. With the Army still segregated at the time, Gregg faced challenges but persisted in his military career. After completing basic training, he was assigned to a unit in Germany as a medical laboratory technician but there were no jobs there for Black soldiers, so he was transferred to be a unit supply clerk in an all-Black unit of the Quartermaster Corps.
Gregg was promoted several times over the next three years before becoming an officer. After being commissioned as a 2nd Lt. in 1950, Gregg was assigned to an all-Black service unit at Fort Lee, Virginia. Four years later in 1954, the Army became fully integrated.
Gregg would go on to assume command of the 96th Quartermaster Direct Support Battalion in South Vietnam where he would be awarded the Meritorious Unit Citation as well as the Legion of Merit.
In 1972, Gregg was promoted to Brigadier General and in 1976, Major General. In 1977, former President Jimmy Carter selected Gregg to be the Director of Logistics for the Joint Chief of Staff where Gregg worked hard to improve the readiness of the armed forces in this position. Carter also approved Gregg’s nomination to Lieutenant General, which made Gregg the first Black three-star general in the U.S. Army.
After 35-years in the Army, Gregg retired in 1981. In 2023, Gregg became the only living person in modern history to have an Army installation bear his name when Fort Lee was renamed Fort Gregg-Adams. The base was named for Gregg as well as Lt. Col. Charity Adams Early – highest-ranking Black woman to serve as an Army officer in World War II.
Gregg’s awards include the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, Distinguished Service Medal and Legion of Merit (2 oak leaf clusters). Gregg’s daughter, Alicia Gail-Collier, received the U.S. flag from his funeral service.
(U.S. Army photo by Elizabeth Fraser / Arlington National Cemetery / released) (Photo Credit: Elizabeth Fraser) VIEW ORIGINAL

In 1946, Gregg’s parents signed a waiver allowing him to enlist in the Army at the age of 17. With the Army still segregated at the time, Gregg faced challenges but persisted in his military career. After completing basic training, he was assigned to a unit in Germany as a medical laboratory technician but there were no jobs there for Black soldiers, so he was transferred to be a unit supply clerk in an all-Black unit of the Quartermaster Corps.
Gregg was promoted several times over the next three years before becoming an officer. After being commissioned as a 2nd Lt. in 1950, Gregg was assigned to an all-Black service unit at Fort Lee, Virginia. Four years later in 1954, the Army became fully integrated.
Gregg would go on to assume command of the 96th Quartermaster Direct Support Battalion in South Vietnam where he would be awarded the Meritorious Unit Citation as well as the Legion of Merit.
In 1972, Gregg was promoted to Brigadier General and in 1976, Major General. In 1977, former President Jimmy Carter selected Gregg to be the Director of Logistics for the Joint Chief of Staff where Gregg worked hard to improve the readiness of the armed forces in this position. Carter also approved Gregg’s nomination to Lieutenant General, which made Gregg the first Black three-star general in the U.S. Army.
After 35-years in the Army, Gregg retired in 1981. In 2023, Gregg became the only living person in modern history to have an Army installation bear his name when Fort Lee was renamed Fort Gregg-Adams. The base was named for Gregg as well as Lt. Col. Charity Adams Early – highest-ranking Black woman to serve as an Army officer in World War II.
Gregg’s awards include the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, Distinguished Service Medal and Legion of Merit (2 oak leaf clusters). Gregg’s daughter, Alicia Gail-Collier, received the U.S. flag from his funeral service.
(U.S. Army photo by Elizabeth Fraser / Arlington National Cemetery / released) (Photo Credit: Elizabeth Fraser) VIEW ORIGINAL

In 1946, Gregg’s parents signed a waiver allowing him to enlist in the Army at the age of 17. With the Army still segregated at the time, Gregg faced challenges but persisted in his military career. After completing basic training, he was assigned to a unit in Germany as a medical laboratory technician but there were no jobs there for Black soldiers, so he was transferred to be a unit supply clerk in an all-Black unit of the Quartermaster Corps.
Gregg was promoted several times over the next three years before becoming an officer. After being commissioned as a 2nd Lt. in 1950, Gregg was assigned to an all-Black service unit at Fort Lee, Virginia. Four years later in 1954, the Army became fully integrated.
Gregg would go on to assume command of the 96th Quartermaster Direct Support Battalion in South Vietnam where he would be awarded the Meritorious Unit Citation as well as the Legion of Merit.
In 1972, Gregg was promoted to Brigadier General and in 1976, Major General. In 1977, former President Jimmy Carter selected Gregg to be the Director of Logistics for the Joint Chief of Staff where Gregg worked hard to improve the readiness of the armed forces in this position. Carter also approved Gregg’s nomination to Lieutenant General, which made Gregg the first Black three-star general in the U.S. Army.
After 35-years in the Army, Gregg retired in 1981. In 2023, Gregg became the only living person in modern history to have an Army installation bear his name when Fort Lee was renamed Fort Gregg-Adams. The base was named for Gregg as well as Lt. Col. Charity Adams Early – highest-ranking Black woman to serve as an Army officer in World War II.
Gregg’s awards include the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, Distinguished Service Medal and Legion of Merit (2 oak leaf clusters). Gregg’s daughter, Alicia Gail-Collier, received the U.S. flag from his funeral service.
(U.S. Army photo by Elizabeth Fraser / Arlington National Cemetery / released) (Photo Credit: Elizabeth Fraser) VIEW ORIGINAL
ARLINGTON, Va. — Soldiers from the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) and the U.S. Army Band, “Pershing’s Own,” conducted military funeral honors with funeral escort for retired U.S. Army Lt. Gen. Arthur Gregg Thursday in Section 2 of Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington.
During the Ceremony, Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin III presented the U.S. flag from the funeral service Gregg's daughter, Alicia Gail-Collier.
"As the first Black three-star general and Deputy Chief of Staff, G-4, Lt. Gen. Arthur Gregg was a trailblazer," Austin stated Aug. 30 on the social media platforms Facebook and X. "His name lives on at the renamed Ft. Gregg-Adams in Virginia, a lasting reminder of his legacy, leadership, and his commitment to military service. May he rest in peace."

In 1946, Gregg’s parents signed a waiver allowing him to enlist in the Army at the age of 17. With the Army still segregated at the time, Gregg faced challenges but persisted in his military career. After completing basic training, he was assigned to a unit in Germany as a medical laboratory technician but there were no jobs there for Black soldiers, so he was transferred to be a unit supply clerk in an all-Black unit of the Quartermaster Corps.
Gregg was promoted several times over the next three years before becoming an officer. After being commissioned as a 2nd Lt. in 1950, Gregg was assigned to an all-Black service unit at Fort Lee, Virginia. Four years later in 1954, the Army became fully integrated.
Gregg would go on to assume command of the 96th Quartermaster Direct Support Battalion in South Vietnam where he would be awarded the Meritorious Unit Citation as well as the Legion of Merit.
In 1972, Gregg was promoted to Brigadier General and in 1976, Major General. In 1977, former President Jimmy Carter selected Gregg to be the Director of Logistics for the Joint Chief of Staff where Gregg worked hard to improve the readiness of the armed forces in this position. Carter also approved Gregg’s nomination to Lieutenant General, which made Gregg the first Black three-star general in the U.S. Army.
After 35-years in the Army, Gregg retired in 1981. In 2023, Gregg became the only living person in modern history to have an Army installation bear his name when Fort Lee was renamed Fort Gregg-Adams. The base was named for Gregg as well as Lt. Col. Charity Adams Early – highest-ranking Black woman to serve as an Army officer in World War II.
Gregg’s awards include the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, Distinguished Service Medal and Legion of Merit (2 oak leaf clusters). Gregg’s daughter, Alicia Gail-Collier, received the U.S. flag from his funeral service.
(U.S. Army photo by Elizabeth Fraser / Arlington National Cemetery / released) (Photo Credit: Elizabeth Fraser) VIEW ORIGINAL

In 1946, Gregg’s parents signed a waiver allowing him to enlist in the Army at the age of 17. With the Army still segregated at the time, Gregg faced challenges but persisted in his military career. After completing basic training, he was assigned to a unit in Germany as a medical laboratory technician but there were no jobs there for Black soldiers, so he was transferred to be a unit supply clerk in an all-Black unit of the Quartermaster Corps.
Gregg was promoted several times over the next three years before becoming an officer. After being commissioned as a 2nd Lt. in 1950, Gregg was assigned to an all-Black service unit at Fort Lee, Virginia. Four years later in 1954, the Army became fully integrated.
Gregg would go on to assume command of the 96th Quartermaster Direct Support Battalion in South Vietnam where he would be awarded the Meritorious Unit Citation as well as the Legion of Merit.
In 1972, Gregg was promoted to Brigadier General and in 1976, Major General. In 1977, former President Jimmy Carter selected Gregg to be the Director of Logistics for the Joint Chief of Staff where Gregg worked hard to improve the readiness of the armed forces in this position. Carter also approved Gregg’s nomination to Lieutenant General, which made Gregg the first Black three-star general in the U.S. Army.
After 35-years in the Army, Gregg retired in 1981. In 2023, Gregg became the only living person in modern history to have an Army installation bear his name when Fort Lee was renamed Fort Gregg-Adams. The base was named for Gregg as well as Lt. Col. Charity Adams Early – highest-ranking Black woman to serve as an Army officer in World War II.
Gregg’s awards include the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, Distinguished Service Medal and Legion of Merit (2 oak leaf clusters). Gregg’s daughter, Alicia Gail-Collier, received the U.S. flag from his funeral service.
(U.S. Army photo by Elizabeth Fraser / Arlington National Cemetery / released) (Photo Credit: Elizabeth Fraser) VIEW ORIGINAL

In 1946, Gregg’s parents signed a waiver allowing him to enlist in the Army at the age of 17. With the Army still segregated at the time, Gregg faced challenges but persisted in his military career. After completing basic training, he was assigned to a unit in Germany as a medical laboratory technician but there were no jobs there for Black soldiers, so he was transferred to be a unit supply clerk in an all-Black unit of the Quartermaster Corps.
Gregg was promoted several times over the next three years before becoming an officer. After being commissioned as a 2nd Lt. in 1950, Gregg was assigned to an all-Black service unit at Fort Lee, Virginia. Four years later in 1954, the Army became fully integrated.
Gregg would go on to assume command of the 96th Quartermaster Direct Support Battalion in South Vietnam where he would be awarded the Meritorious Unit Citation as well as the Legion of Merit.
In 1972, Gregg was promoted to Brigadier General and in 1976, Major General. In 1977, former President Jimmy Carter selected Gregg to be the Director of Logistics for the Joint Chief of Staff where Gregg worked hard to improve the readiness of the armed forces in this position. Carter also approved Gregg’s nomination to Lieutenant General, which made Gregg the first Black three-star general in the U.S. Army.
After 35-years in the Army, Gregg retired in 1981. In 2023, Gregg became the only living person in modern history to have an Army installation bear his name when Fort Lee was renamed Fort Gregg-Adams. The base was named for Gregg as well as Lt. Col. Charity Adams Early – highest-ranking Black woman to serve as an Army officer in World War II.
Gregg’s awards include the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, Distinguished Service Medal and Legion of Merit (2 oak leaf clusters). Gregg’s daughter, Alicia Gail-Collier, received the U.S. flag from his funeral service.
(U.S. Army photo by Elizabeth Fraser / Arlington National Cemetery / released) (Photo Credit: Elizabeth Fraser) VIEW ORIGINAL

In 1946, Gregg’s parents signed a waiver allowing him to enlist in the Army at the age of 17. With the Army still segregated at the time, Gregg faced challenges but persisted in his military career. After completing basic training, he was assigned to a unit in Germany as a medical laboratory technician but there were no jobs there for Black soldiers, so he was transferred to be a unit supply clerk in an all-Black unit of the Quartermaster Corps.
Gregg was promoted several times over the next three years before becoming an officer. After being commissioned as a 2nd Lt. in 1950, Gregg was assigned to an all-Black service unit at Fort Lee, Virginia. Four years later in 1954, the Army became fully integrated.
Gregg would go on to assume command of the 96th Quartermaster Direct Support Battalion in South Vietnam where he would be awarded the Meritorious Unit Citation as well as the Legion of Merit.
In 1972, Gregg was promoted to Brigadier General and in 1976, Major General. In 1977, former President Jimmy Carter selected Gregg to be the Director of Logistics for the Joint Chief of Staff where Gregg worked hard to improve the readiness of the armed forces in this position. Carter also approved Gregg’s nomination to Lieutenant General, which made Gregg the first Black three-star general in the U.S. Army.
After 35-years in the Army, Gregg retired in 1981. In 2023, Gregg became the only living person in modern history to have an Army installation bear his name when Fort Lee was renamed Fort Gregg-Adams. The base was named for Gregg as well as Lt. Col. Charity Adams Early – highest-ranking Black woman to serve as an Army officer in World War II.
Gregg’s awards include the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, Distinguished Service Medal and Legion of Merit (2 oak leaf clusters). Gregg’s daughter, Alicia Gail-Collier, received the U.S. flag from his funeral service.
(U.S. Army photo by Elizabeth Fraser / Arlington National Cemetery / released) (Photo Credit: Elizabeth Fraser) VIEW ORIGINAL

In 1946, Gregg’s parents signed a waiver allowing him to enlist in the Army at the age of 17. With the Army still segregated at the time, Gregg faced challenges but persisted in his military career. After completing basic training, he was assigned to a unit in Germany as a medical laboratory technician but there were no jobs there for Black soldiers, so he was transferred to be a unit supply clerk in an all-Black unit of the Quartermaster Corps.
Gregg was promoted several times over the next three years before becoming an officer. After being commissioned as a 2nd Lt. in 1950, Gregg was assigned to an all-Black service unit at Fort Lee, Virginia. Four years later in 1954, the Army became fully integrated.
Gregg would go on to assume command of the 96th Quartermaster Direct Support Battalion in South Vietnam where he would be awarded the Meritorious Unit Citation as well as the Legion of Merit.
In 1972, Gregg was promoted to Brigadier General and in 1976, Major General. In 1977, former President Jimmy Carter selected Gregg to be the Director of Logistics for the Joint Chief of Staff where Gregg worked hard to improve the readiness of the armed forces in this position. Carter also approved Gregg’s nomination to Lieutenant General, which made Gregg the first Black three-star general in the U.S. Army.
After 35-years in the Army, Gregg retired in 1981. In 2023, Gregg became the only living person in modern history to have an Army installation bear his name when Fort Lee was renamed Fort Gregg-Adams. The base was named for Gregg as well as Lt. Col. Charity Adams Early – highest-ranking Black woman to serve as an Army officer in World War II.
Gregg’s awards include the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, Distinguished Service Medal and Legion of Merit (2 oak leaf clusters). Gregg’s daughter, Alicia Gail-Collier, received the U.S. flag from his funeral service.
(U.S. Army photo by Elizabeth Fraser / Arlington National Cemetery / released) (Photo Credit: Elizabeth Fraser) VIEW ORIGINAL

In 1946, Gregg’s parents signed a waiver allowing him to enlist in the Army at the age of 17. With the Army still segregated at the time, Gregg faced challenges but persisted in his military career. After completing basic training, he was assigned to a unit in Germany as a medical laboratory technician but there were no jobs there for Black soldiers, so he was transferred to be a unit supply clerk in an all-Black unit of the Quartermaster Corps.
Gregg was promoted several times over the next three years before becoming an officer. After being commissioned as a 2nd Lt. in 1950, Gregg was assigned to an all-Black service unit at Fort Lee, Virginia. Four years later in 1954, the Army became fully integrated.
Gregg would go on to assume command of the 96th Quartermaster Direct Support Battalion in South Vietnam where he would be awarded the Meritorious Unit Citation as well as the Legion of Merit.
In 1972, Gregg was promoted to Brigadier General and in 1976, Major General. In 1977, former President Jimmy Carter selected Gregg to be the Director of Logistics for the Joint Chief of Staff where Gregg worked hard to improve the readiness of the armed forces in this position. Carter also approved Gregg’s nomination to Lieutenant General, which made Gregg the first Black three-star general in the U.S. Army.
After 35-years in the Army, Gregg retired in 1981. In 2023, Gregg became the only living person in modern history to have an Army installation bear his name when Fort Lee was renamed Fort Gregg-Adams. The base was named for Gregg as well as Lt. Col. Charity Adams Early – highest-ranking Black woman to serve as an Army officer in World War II.
Gregg’s awards include the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, Distinguished Service Medal and Legion of Merit (2 oak leaf clusters). Gregg’s daughter, Alicia Gail-Collier, received the U.S. flag from his funeral service.
(U.S. Army photo by Elizabeth Fraser / Arlington National Cemetery / released) (Photo Credit: Elizabeth Fraser) VIEW ORIGINAL

In 1946, Gregg’s parents signed a waiver allowing him to enlist in the Army at the age of 17. With the Army still segregated at the time, Gregg faced challenges but persisted in his military career. After completing basic training, he was assigned to a unit in Germany as a medical laboratory technician but there were no jobs there for Black soldiers, so he was transferred to be a unit supply clerk in an all-Black unit of the Quartermaster Corps.
Gregg was promoted several times over the next three years before becoming an officer. After being commissioned as a 2nd Lt. in 1950, Gregg was assigned to an all-Black service unit at Fort Lee, Virginia. Four years later in 1954, the Army became fully integrated.
Gregg would go on to assume command of the 96th Quartermaster Direct Support Battalion in South Vietnam where he would be awarded the Meritorious Unit Citation as well as the Legion of Merit.
In 1972, Gregg was promoted to Brigadier General and in 1976, Major General. In 1977, former President Jimmy Carter selected Gregg to be the Director of Logistics for the Joint Chief of Staff where Gregg worked hard to improve the readiness of the armed forces in this position. Carter also approved Gregg’s nomination to Lieutenant General, which made Gregg the first Black three-star general in the U.S. Army.
After 35-years in the Army, Gregg retired in 1981. In 2023, Gregg became the only living person in modern history to have an Army installation bear his name when Fort Lee was renamed Fort Gregg-Adams. The base was named for Gregg as well as Lt. Col. Charity Adams Early – highest-ranking Black woman to serve as an Army officer in World War II.
Gregg’s awards include the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, Distinguished Service Medal and Legion of Merit (2 oak leaf clusters). Gregg’s daughter, Alicia Gail-Collier, received the U.S. flag from his funeral service.
(U.S. Army photo by Elizabeth Fraser / Arlington National Cemetery / released) (Photo Credit: Elizabeth Fraser) VIEW ORIGINAL

In 1946, Gregg’s parents signed a waiver allowing him to enlist in the Army at the age of 17. With the Army still segregated at the time, Gregg faced challenges but persisted in his military career. After completing basic training, he was assigned to a unit in Germany as a medical laboratory technician but there were no jobs there for Black soldiers, so he was transferred to be a unit supply clerk in an all-Black unit of the Quartermaster Corps.
Gregg was promoted several times over the next three years before becoming an officer. After being commissioned as a 2nd Lt. in 1950, Gregg was assigned to an all-Black service unit at Fort Lee, Virginia. Four years later in 1954, the Army became fully integrated.
Gregg would go on to assume command of the 96th Quartermaster Direct Support Battalion in South Vietnam where he would be awarded the Meritorious Unit Citation as well as the Legion of Merit.
In 1972, Gregg was promoted to Brigadier General and in 1976, Major General. In 1977, former President Jimmy Carter selected Gregg to be the Director of Logistics for the Joint Chief of Staff where Gregg worked hard to improve the readiness of the armed forces in this position. Carter also approved Gregg’s nomination to Lieutenant General, which made Gregg the first Black three-star general in the U.S. Army.
After 35-years in the Army, Gregg retired in 1981. In 2023, Gregg became the only living person in modern history to have an Army installation bear his name when Fort Lee was renamed Fort Gregg-Adams. The base was named for Gregg as well as Lt. Col. Charity Adams Early – highest-ranking Black woman to serve as an Army officer in World War II.
Gregg’s awards include the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, Distinguished Service Medal and Legion of Merit (2 oak leaf clusters).
(U.S. Army photo by Elizabeth Fraser / Arlington National Cemetery / released) (Photo Credit: Elizabeth Fraser) VIEW ORIGINAL
The 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment, traditionally known as "The Old Guard," is the oldest active-duty infantry unit in the Army, serving the nation since 1784. The Old Guard is the Army's official ceremonial unit and escort to the president, and it also provides security for Washington, D.C., in time of national emergency or civil disturbance.
The unit received its unique name from Gen. Winfield Scott during a victory parade at Mexico City in 1847 following its valorous performance in the Mexican War.
The Old Guard perform such duties as rendering final honors to America's fallen comrades at Arlington National Cemetery, conducting the dignified transfer of remains at Dover Air Force Base as our Nation's fallen heroes return home, serve as the official Army Honor Guard and Escort to the President in addition to guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
The U.S. Army Band “Pershing's Own” was formed on January 25, 1922, by order of General John J. Pershing: “You will organize and equip The Army Band.” Pershing believed that bands played a vital role in troop morale and efficiency and was convinced that America needed a premier band to surpass those of Europe.
The Ceremonial Band is comprised of 72 musicians whose principal function is the performance of funerals in Arlington National Cemetery and various other high-visibility ceremonial events in the National Capital region.
Gregg, who died Aug. 22 at age 96, led a distinguished life and had a groundbreaking military career.
In 1946, Gregg’s parents signed a waiver allowing him to enlist in the Army at the age of 17. With the Army still segregated at the time, Gregg faced challenges but persisted in his military career. After completing basic training, he was assigned to a unit in Germany as a medical laboratory technician but there were no jobs there for Black soldiers, so he was transferred to be a unit supply clerk in an all-Black unit of the Quartermaster Corps.
Gregg was promoted several times over the next three years before becoming an officer.
After being commissioned as a 2nd Lt. in 1950, Gregg was assigned to an all-Black service unit at Fort Lee, Virginia. Four years later in 1954, the Army became fully integrated.
Gregg would go on to assume command of the 96th Quartermaster Direct Support Battalion in South Vietnam where he would be awarded the Meritorious Unit Citation as well as the Legion of Merit.

In 1946, Gregg’s parents signed a waiver allowing him to enlist in the Army at the age of 17. With the Army still segregated at the time, Gregg faced challenges but persisted in his military career. After completing basic training, he was assigned to a unit in Germany as a medical laboratory technician but there were no jobs there for Black soldiers, so he was transferred to be a unit supply clerk in an all-Black unit of the Quartermaster Corps.
Gregg was promoted several times over the next three years before becoming an officer. After being commissioned as a 2nd Lt. in 1950, Gregg was assigned to an all-Black service unit at Fort Lee, Virginia. Four years later in 1954, the Army became fully integrated.
Gregg would go on to assume command of the 96th Quartermaster Direct Support Battalion in South Vietnam where he would be awarded the Meritorious Unit Citation as well as the Legion of Merit.
In 1972, Gregg was promoted to Brigadier General and in 1976, Major General. In 1977, former President Jimmy Carter selected Gregg to be the Director of Logistics for the Joint Chief of Staff where Gregg worked hard to improve the readiness of the armed forces in this position. Carter also approved Gregg’s nomination to Lieutenant General, which made Gregg the first Black three-star general in the U.S. Army.
After 35-years in the Army, Gregg retired in 1981. In 2023, Gregg became the only living person in modern history to have an Army installation bear his name when Fort Lee was renamed Fort Gregg-Adams. The base was named for Gregg as well as Lt. Col. Charity Adams Early – highest-ranking Black woman to serve as an Army officer in World War II.
Gregg’s awards include the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, Distinguished Service Medal and Legion of Merit (2 oak leaf clusters). Gregg’s daughter, Alicia Gail-Collier, received the U.S. flag from his funeral service.
(U.S. Army photo by Elizabeth Fraser / Arlington National Cemetery / released) (Photo Credit: Elizabeth Fraser) VIEW ORIGINAL

In 1946, Gregg’s parents signed a waiver allowing him to enlist in the Army at the age of 17. With the Army still segregated at the time, Gregg faced challenges but persisted in his military career. After completing basic training, he was assigned to a unit in Germany as a medical laboratory technician but there were no jobs there for Black soldiers, so he was transferred to be a unit supply clerk in an all-Black unit of the Quartermaster Corps.
Gregg was promoted several times over the next three years before becoming an officer. After being commissioned as a 2nd Lt. in 1950, Gregg was assigned to an all-Black service unit at Fort Lee, Virginia. Four years later in 1954, the Army became fully integrated.
Gregg would go on to assume command of the 96th Quartermaster Direct Support Battalion in South Vietnam where he would be awarded the Meritorious Unit Citation as well as the Legion of Merit.
In 1972, Gregg was promoted to Brigadier General and in 1976, Major General. In 1977, former President Jimmy Carter selected Gregg to be the Director of Logistics for the Joint Chief of Staff where Gregg worked hard to improve the readiness of the armed forces in this position. Carter also approved Gregg’s nomination to Lieutenant General, which made Gregg the first Black three-star general in the U.S. Army.
After 35-years in the Army, Gregg retired in 1981. In 2023, Gregg became the only living person in modern history to have an Army installation bear his name when Fort Lee was renamed Fort Gregg-Adams. The base was named for Gregg as well as Lt. Col. Charity Adams Early – highest-ranking Black woman to serve as an Army officer in World War II.
Gregg’s awards include the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, Distinguished Service Medal and Legion of Merit (2 oak leaf clusters). Gregg’s daughter, Alicia Gail-Collier, received the U.S. flag from his funeral service.
(U.S. Army photo by Elizabeth Fraser / Arlington National Cemetery / released) (Photo Credit: Elizabeth Fraser) VIEW ORIGINAL

In 1946, Gregg’s parents signed a waiver allowing him to enlist in the Army at the age of 17. With the Army still segregated at the time, Gregg faced challenges but persisted in his military career. After completing basic training, he was assigned to a unit in Germany as a medical laboratory technician but there were no jobs there for Black soldiers, so he was transferred to be a unit supply clerk in an all-Black unit of the Quartermaster Corps.
Gregg was promoted several times over the next three years before becoming an officer. After being commissioned as a 2nd Lt. in 1950, Gregg was assigned to an all-Black service unit at Fort Lee, Virginia. Four years later in 1954, the Army became fully integrated.
Gregg would go on to assume command of the 96th Quartermaster Direct Support Battalion in South Vietnam where he would be awarded the Meritorious Unit Citation as well as the Legion of Merit.
In 1972, Gregg was promoted to Brigadier General and in 1976, Major General. In 1977, former President Jimmy Carter selected Gregg to be the Director of Logistics for the Joint Chief of Staff where Gregg worked hard to improve the readiness of the armed forces in this position. Carter also approved Gregg’s nomination to Lieutenant General, which made Gregg the first Black three-star general in the U.S. Army.
After 35-years in the Army, Gregg retired in 1981. In 2023, Gregg became the only living person in modern history to have an Army installation bear his name when Fort Lee was renamed Fort Gregg-Adams. The base was named for Gregg as well as Lt. Col. Charity Adams Early – highest-ranking Black woman to serve as an Army officer in World War II.
Gregg’s awards include the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, Distinguished Service Medal and Legion of Merit (2 oak leaf clusters). Gregg’s daughter, Alicia Gail-Collier, received the U.S. flag from his funeral service.
(U.S. Army photo by Elizabeth Fraser / Arlington National Cemetery / released) (Photo Credit: Elizabeth Fraser) VIEW ORIGINAL

In 1946, Gregg’s parents signed a waiver allowing him to enlist in the Army at the age of 17. With the Army still segregated at the time, Gregg faced challenges but persisted in his military career. After completing basic training, he was assigned to a unit in Germany as a medical laboratory technician but there were no jobs there for Black soldiers, so he was transferred to be a unit supply clerk in an all-Black unit of the Quartermaster Corps.
Gregg was promoted several times over the next three years before becoming an officer. After being commissioned as a 2nd Lt. in 1950, Gregg was assigned to an all-Black service unit at Fort Lee, Virginia. Four years later in 1954, the Army became fully integrated.
Gregg would go on to assume command of the 96th Quartermaster Direct Support Battalion in South Vietnam where he would be awarded the Meritorious Unit Citation as well as the Legion of Merit.
In 1972, Gregg was promoted to Brigadier General and in 1976, Major General. In 1977, former President Jimmy Carter selected Gregg to be the Director of Logistics for the Joint Chief of Staff where Gregg worked hard to improve the readiness of the armed forces in this position. Carter also approved Gregg’s nomination to Lieutenant General, which made Gregg the first Black three-star general in the U.S. Army.
After 35-years in the Army, Gregg retired in 1981. In 2023, Gregg became the only living person in modern history to have an Army installation bear his name when Fort Lee was renamed Fort Gregg-Adams. The base was named for Gregg as well as Lt. Col. Charity Adams Early – highest-ranking Black woman to serve as an Army officer in World War II.
Gregg’s awards include the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, Distinguished Service Medal and Legion of Merit (2 oak leaf clusters). Gregg’s daughter, Alicia Gail-Collier, received the U.S. flag from his funeral service.
(U.S. Army photo by Elizabeth Fraser / Arlington National Cemetery / released) (Photo Credit: Elizabeth Fraser) VIEW ORIGINAL

In 1946, Gregg’s parents signed a waiver allowing him to enlist in the Army at the age of 17. With the Army still segregated at the time, Gregg faced challenges but persisted in his military career. After completing basic training, he was assigned to a unit in Germany as a medical laboratory technician but there were no jobs there for Black soldiers, so he was transferred to be a unit supply clerk in an all-Black unit of the Quartermaster Corps.
Gregg was promoted several times over the next three years before becoming an officer. After being commissioned as a 2nd Lt. in 1950, Gregg was assigned to an all-Black service unit at Fort Lee, Virginia. Four years later in 1954, the Army became fully integrated.
Gregg would go on to assume command of the 96th Quartermaster Direct Support Battalion in South Vietnam where he would be awarded the Meritorious Unit Citation as well as the Legion of Merit.
In 1972, Gregg was promoted to Brigadier General and in 1976, Major General. In 1977, former President Jimmy Carter selected Gregg to be the Director of Logistics for the Joint Chief of Staff where Gregg worked hard to improve the readiness of the armed forces in this position. Carter also approved Gregg’s nomination to Lieutenant General, which made Gregg the first Black three-star general in the U.S. Army.
After 35-years in the Army, Gregg retired in 1981. In 2023, Gregg became the only living person in modern history to have an Army installation bear his name when Fort Lee was renamed Fort Gregg-Adams. The base was named for Gregg as well as Lt. Col. Charity Adams Early – highest-ranking Black woman to serve as an Army officer in World War II.
Gregg’s awards include the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, Distinguished Service Medal and Legion of Merit (2 oak leaf clusters). Gregg’s daughter, Alicia Gail-Collier, received the U.S. flag from his funeral service.
(U.S. Army photo by Elizabeth Fraser / Arlington National Cemetery / released) (Photo Credit: Elizabeth Fraser) VIEW ORIGINAL

In 1946, Gregg’s parents signed a waiver allowing him to enlist in the Army at the age of 17. With the Army still segregated at the time, Gregg faced challenges but persisted in his military career. After completing basic training, he was assigned to a unit in Germany as a medical laboratory technician but there were no jobs there for Black soldiers, so he was transferred to be a unit supply clerk in an all-Black unit of the Quartermaster Corps.
Gregg was promoted several times over the next three years before becoming an officer. After being commissioned as a 2nd Lt. in 1950, Gregg was assigned to an all-Black service unit at Fort Lee, Virginia. Four years later in 1954, the Army became fully integrated.
Gregg would go on to assume command of the 96th Quartermaster Direct Support Battalion in South Vietnam where he would be awarded the Meritorious Unit Citation as well as the Legion of Merit.
In 1972, Gregg was promoted to Brigadier General and in 1976, Major General. In 1977, former President Jimmy Carter selected Gregg to be the Director of Logistics for the Joint Chief of Staff where Gregg worked hard to improve the readiness of the armed forces in this position. Carter also approved Gregg’s nomination to Lieutenant General, which made Gregg the first Black three-star general in the U.S. Army.
After 35-years in the Army, Gregg retired in 1981. In 2023, Gregg became the only living person in modern history to have an Army installation bear his name when Fort Lee was renamed Fort Gregg-Adams. The base was named for Gregg as well as Lt. Col. Charity Adams Early – highest-ranking Black woman to serve as an Army officer in World War II.
Gregg’s awards include the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, Distinguished Service Medal and Legion of Merit (2 oak leaf clusters). Gregg’s daughter, Alicia Gail-Collier, received the U.S. flag from his funeral service.
(U.S. Army photo by Elizabeth Fraser / Arlington National Cemetery / released) (Photo Credit: Elizabeth Fraser) VIEW ORIGINAL

In 1946, Gregg’s parents signed a waiver allowing him to enlist in the Army at the age of 17. With the Army still segregated at the time, Gregg faced challenges but persisted in his military career. After completing basic training, he was assigned to a unit in Germany as a medical laboratory technician but there were no jobs there for Black soldiers, so he was transferred to be a unit supply clerk in an all-Black unit of the Quartermaster Corps.
Gregg was promoted several times over the next three years before becoming an officer. After being commissioned as a 2nd Lt. in 1950, Gregg was assigned to an all-Black service unit at Fort Lee, Virginia. Four years later in 1954, the Army became fully integrated.
Gregg would go on to assume command of the 96th Quartermaster Direct Support Battalion in South Vietnam where he would be awarded the Meritorious Unit Citation as well as the Legion of Merit.
In 1972, Gregg was promoted to Brigadier General and in 1976, Major General. In 1977, former President Jimmy Carter selected Gregg to be the Director of Logistics for the Joint Chief of Staff where Gregg worked hard to improve the readiness of the armed forces in this position. Carter also approved Gregg’s nomination to Lieutenant General, which made Gregg the first Black three-star general in the U.S. Army.
After 35-years in the Army, Gregg retired in 1981. In 2023, Gregg became the only living person in modern history to have an Army installation bear his name when Fort Lee was renamed Fort Gregg-Adams. The base was named for Gregg as well as Lt. Col. Charity Adams Early – highest-ranking Black woman to serve as an Army officer in World War II.
Gregg’s awards include the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, Distinguished Service Medal and Legion of Merit (2 oak leaf clusters). Gregg’s daughter, Alicia Gail-Collier, received the U.S. flag from his funeral service.
(U.S. Army photo by Elizabeth Fraser / Arlington National Cemetery / released) (Photo Credit: Elizabeth Fraser) VIEW ORIGINAL

In 1946, Gregg’s parents signed a waiver allowing him to enlist in the Army at the age of 17. With the Army still segregated at the time, Gregg faced challenges but persisted in his military career. After completing basic training, he was assigned to a unit in Germany as a medical laboratory technician but there were no jobs there for Black soldiers, so he was transferred to be a unit supply clerk in an all-Black unit of the Quartermaster Corps.
Gregg was promoted several times over the next three years before becoming an officer. After being commissioned as a 2nd Lt. in 1950, Gregg was assigned to an all-Black service unit at Fort Lee, Virginia. Four years later in 1954, the Army became fully integrated.
Gregg would go on to assume command of the 96th Quartermaster Direct Support Battalion in South Vietnam where he would be awarded the Meritorious Unit Citation as well as the Legion of Merit.
In 1972, Gregg was promoted to Brigadier General and in 1976, Major General. In 1977, former President Jimmy Carter selected Gregg to be the Director of Logistics for the Joint Chief of Staff where Gregg worked hard to improve the readiness of the armed forces in this position. Carter also approved Gregg’s nomination to Lieutenant General, which made Gregg the first Black three-star general in the U.S. Army.
After 35-years in the Army, Gregg retired in 1981. In 2023, Gregg became the only living person in modern history to have an Army installation bear his name when Fort Lee was renamed Fort Gregg-Adams. The base was named for Gregg as well as Lt. Col. Charity Adams Early – highest-ranking Black woman to serve as an Army officer in World War II.
Gregg’s awards include the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, Distinguished Service Medal and Legion of Merit (2 oak leaf clusters). Gregg’s daughter, Alicia Gail-Collier, received the U.S. flag from his funeral service.
(U.S. Army photo by Elizabeth Fraser / Arlington National Cemetery / released) (Photo Credit: Elizabeth Fraser) VIEW ORIGINAL
In 1972, Gregg was promoted to Brigadier General and in 1976, Major General. In 1977, former President Jimmy Carter selected Gregg to be the Director of Logistics for the Joint Chief of Staff where Gregg worked hard to improve the readiness of the armed forces in this position. Carter also approved Gregg’s nomination to Lieutenant General, which made Gregg the first Black three-star general in the U.S. Army.
After 35 years in the Army, Gregg retired in 1981. In 2023, Gregg became the only living person in modern history to have an Army installation bear his name when Fort Lee was renamed Fort Gregg-Adams. The base was named for Gregg as well as Lt. Col. Charity Adams Early – highest-ranking Black woman to serve as an Army officer in World War II.
Gregg’s awards included the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, Distinguished Service Medal and Legion of Merit (2 oak leaf clusters).

In 1946, Gregg’s parents signed a waiver allowing him to enlist in the Army at the age of 17. With the Army still segregated at the time, Gregg faced challenges but persisted in his military career. After completing basic training, he was assigned to a unit in Germany as a medical laboratory technician but there were no jobs there for Black soldiers, so he was transferred to be a unit supply clerk in an all-Black unit of the Quartermaster Corps.
Gregg was promoted several times over the next three years before becoming an officer. After being commissioned as a 2nd Lt. in 1950, Gregg was assigned to an all-Black service unit at Fort Lee, Virginia. Four years later in 1954, the Army became fully integrated.
Gregg would go on to assume command of the 96th Quartermaster Direct Support Battalion in South Vietnam where he would be awarded the Meritorious Unit Citation as well as the Legion of Merit.
In 1972, Gregg was promoted to Brigadier General and in 1976, Major General. In 1977, former President Jimmy Carter selected Gregg to be the Director of Logistics for the Joint Chief of Staff where Gregg worked hard to improve the readiness of the armed forces in this position. Carter also approved Gregg’s nomination to Lieutenant General, which made Gregg the first Black three-star general in the U.S. Army.
After 35-years in the Army, Gregg retired in 1981. In 2023, Gregg became the only living person in modern history to have an Army installation bear his name when Fort Lee was renamed Fort Gregg-Adams. The base was named for Gregg as well as Lt. Col. Charity Adams Early – highest-ranking Black woman to serve as an Army officer in World War II.
Gregg’s awards include the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, Distinguished Service Medal and Legion of Merit (2 oak leaf clusters).
(U.S. Army photo by Elizabeth Fraser / Arlington National Cemetery / released) (Photo Credit: Elizabeth Fraser) VIEW ORIGINAL

In 1946, Gregg’s parents signed a waiver allowing him to enlist in the Army at the age of 17. With the Army still segregated at the time, Gregg faced challenges but persisted in his military career. After completing basic training, he was assigned to a unit in Germany as a medical laboratory technician but there were no jobs there for Black soldiers, so he was transferred to be a unit supply clerk in an all-Black unit of the Quartermaster Corps.
Gregg was promoted several times over the next three years before becoming an officer. After being commissioned as a 2nd Lt. in 1950, Gregg was assigned to an all-Black service unit at Fort Lee, Virginia. Four years later in 1954, the Army became fully integrated.
Gregg would go on to assume command of the 96th Quartermaster Direct Support Battalion in South Vietnam where he would be awarded the Meritorious Unit Citation as well as the Legion of Merit.
In 1972, Gregg was promoted to Brigadier General and in 1976, Major General. In 1977, former President Jimmy Carter selected Gregg to be the Director of Logistics for the Joint Chief of Staff where Gregg worked hard to improve the readiness of the armed forces in this position. Carter also approved Gregg’s nomination to Lieutenant General, which made Gregg the first Black three-star general in the U.S. Army.
After 35-years in the Army, Gregg retired in 1981. In 2023, Gregg became the only living person in modern history to have an Army installation bear his name when Fort Lee was renamed Fort Gregg-Adams. The base was named for Gregg as well as Lt. Col. Charity Adams Early – highest-ranking Black woman to serve as an Army officer in World War II.
Gregg’s awards include the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, Distinguished Service Medal and Legion of Merit (2 oak leaf clusters). Gregg’s daughter, Alicia Gail-Collier, received the U.S. flag from his funeral service.
(U.S. Army photo by Elizabeth Fraser / Arlington National Cemetery / released) (Photo Credit: Elizabeth Fraser) VIEW ORIGINAL

In 1946, Gregg’s parents signed a waiver allowing him to enlist in the Army at the age of 17. With the Army still segregated at the time, Gregg faced challenges but persisted in his military career. After completing basic training, he was assigned to a unit in Germany as a medical laboratory technician but there were no jobs there for Black soldiers, so he was transferred to be a unit supply clerk in an all-Black unit of the Quartermaster Corps.
Gregg was promoted several times over the next three years before becoming an officer. After being commissioned as a 2nd Lt. in 1950, Gregg was assigned to an all-Black service unit at Fort Lee, Virginia. Four years later in 1954, the Army became fully integrated.
Gregg would go on to assume command of the 96th Quartermaster Direct Support Battalion in South Vietnam where he would be awarded the Meritorious Unit Citation as well as the Legion of Merit.
In 1972, Gregg was promoted to Brigadier General and in 1976, Major General. In 1977, former President Jimmy Carter selected Gregg to be the Director of Logistics for the Joint Chief of Staff where Gregg worked hard to improve the readiness of the armed forces in this position. Carter also approved Gregg’s nomination to Lieutenant General, which made Gregg the first Black three-star general in the U.S. Army.
After 35-years in the Army, Gregg retired in 1981. In 2023, Gregg became the only living person in modern history to have an Army installation bear his name when Fort Lee was renamed Fort Gregg-Adams. The base was named for Gregg as well as Lt. Col. Charity Adams Early – highest-ranking Black woman to serve as an Army officer in World War II.
Gregg’s awards include the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, Distinguished Service Medal and Legion of Merit (2 oak leaf clusters). Gregg’s daughter, Alicia Gail-Collier, received the U.S. flag from his funeral service.
(U.S. Army photo by Elizabeth Fraser / Arlington National Cemetery / released) (Photo Credit: Elizabeth Fraser) VIEW ORIGINAL

In 1946, Gregg’s parents signed a waiver allowing him to enlist in the Army at the age of 17. With the Army still segregated at the time, Gregg faced challenges but persisted in his military career. After completing basic training, he was assigned to a unit in Germany as a medical laboratory technician but there were no jobs there for Black soldiers, so he was transferred to be a unit supply clerk in an all-Black unit of the Quartermaster Corps.
Gregg was promoted several times over the next three years before becoming an officer. After being commissioned as a 2nd Lt. in 1950, Gregg was assigned to an all-Black service unit at Fort Lee, Virginia. Four years later in 1954, the Army became fully integrated.
Gregg would go on to assume command of the 96th Quartermaster Direct Support Battalion in South Vietnam where he would be awarded the Meritorious Unit Citation as well as the Legion of Merit.
In 1972, Gregg was promoted to Brigadier General and in 1976, Major General. In 1977, former President Jimmy Carter selected Gregg to be the Director of Logistics for the Joint Chief of Staff where Gregg worked hard to improve the readiness of the armed forces in this position. Carter also approved Gregg’s nomination to Lieutenant General, which made Gregg the first Black three-star general in the U.S. Army.
After 35-years in the Army, Gregg retired in 1981. In 2023, Gregg became the only living person in modern history to have an Army installation bear his name when Fort Lee was renamed Fort Gregg-Adams. The base was named for Gregg as well as Lt. Col. Charity Adams Early – highest-ranking Black woman to serve as an Army officer in World War II.
Gregg’s awards include the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, Distinguished Service Medal and Legion of Merit (2 oak leaf clusters). Gregg’s daughter, Alicia Gail-Collier, received the U.S. flag from his funeral service.
(U.S. Army photo by Elizabeth Fraser / Arlington National Cemetery / released) (Photo Credit: Elizabeth Fraser) VIEW ORIGINAL

In 1946, Gregg’s parents signed a waiver allowing him to enlist in the Army at the age of 17. With the Army still segregated at the time, Gregg faced challenges but persisted in his military career. After completing basic training, he was assigned to a unit in Germany as a medical laboratory technician but there were no jobs there for Black soldiers, so he was transferred to be a unit supply clerk in an all-Black unit of the Quartermaster Corps.
Gregg was promoted several times over the next three years before becoming an officer. After being commissioned as a 2nd Lt. in 1950, Gregg was assigned to an all-Black service unit at Fort Lee, Virginia. Four years later in 1954, the Army became fully integrated.
Gregg would go on to assume command of the 96th Quartermaster Direct Support Battalion in South Vietnam where he would be awarded the Meritorious Unit Citation as well as the Legion of Merit.
In 1972, Gregg was promoted to Brigadier General and in 1976, Major General. In 1977, former President Jimmy Carter selected Gregg to be the Director of Logistics for the Joint Chief of Staff where Gregg worked hard to improve the readiness of the armed forces in this position. Carter also approved Gregg’s nomination to Lieutenant General, which made Gregg the first Black three-star general in the U.S. Army.
After 35-years in the Army, Gregg retired in 1981. In 2023, Gregg became the only living person in modern history to have an Army installation bear his name when Fort Lee was renamed Fort Gregg-Adams. The base was named for Gregg as well as Lt. Col. Charity Adams Early – highest-ranking Black woman to serve as an Army officer in World War II.
Gregg’s awards include the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, Distinguished Service Medal and Legion of Merit (2 oak leaf clusters). Gregg’s daughter, Alicia Gail-Collier, received the U.S. flag from his funeral service.
(U.S. Army photo by Elizabeth Fraser / Arlington National Cemetery / released) (Photo Credit: Elizabeth Fraser) VIEW ORIGINAL
For more on the Old Guard: https://jtfncr.mdw.army.mil/oldguard/
For more on the U.S. Army Band "Pershing's Own" https://usarmyband.com/
For more on Lt. Gen. Arthur J. Gregg: https://www.army.mil/article/279135
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