MONROE – N.C. Department of Transportation officials this morning joined local officials, family, and friends in a ceremony to name the bridge on Skyway Drive over U.S. 74 after Sgt. Jeffrey Greene, a ten–year veteran of the Union County Sheriff's Office who lost his life in a crash while on duty seven years ago today.
“There have been many memorial services that we have attended in Jeff's honor, and they have all been very moving, emotional, and honorable, and also very solemn," said Greene's wife, April. “Today is going to be different. It's meaningful and honorable, but it's not a solemn day. It's a happy day. Today, Jeff's name will be seen and spoken by thousands of people who drive and see this bridge sign."
Other speakers included President of the Union County Women of Law Enforcement Pauline Sherron, and N.C. Board of Transportation member Tony Lathrop.
Last month, the NCDOT Board unanimously passed a resolution to name the Union County bridge in Greene's honor. The naming also had strong support from the Union County Women of Law Enforcement, Monroe City Council, and the Union County Board of Commissioners.
Greene not only served in law enforcement, but for a combined ten years in the U.S. Marines and U.S. Air Force. He served his community through the N.C. Baptist Men's Association and the Renegade Pigs, a law enforcement motorcycle club aiding members of public service organizations and their families.
Sheriff Eddie Cathey fondly remembered Greene in his remarks. “He was my friend and I miss him all the time. It's important that people see this bridge and realize that that's what you get when you live the life that Jeff Greene lived. Just a normal, good person."