Colonel Gregory Townsend, commander of the U.S. Army’s Quartermaster School, 23rd Quartermaster Brigade, died Wednesday from injuries received while helping a stranger in Virginia last week.
On April 18, Townsend was driving on U.S. Highway 460 when he stopped to change the tire of a driver on the road. After changing the tire, the vehicle fell on him, according to his unit. He was transported to Virginia Commonwealth University Critical Care Hospital in Richmond, Virginia where he received treatment until his death.
“The loss of Col. Greg Townsend is devastating for his family and the Army. He was a dedicated leader and the most genuine man you could meet,” said Brig. Gen. Douglas M. McBride Jr., 55th Quartermaster General, and commandant, Quartermaster School.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with Greg’s family and friends during this very difficult time. His legacy as a servant leader will live on in the hearts and minds of all soldiers that he has served with and led.”
Townsend entered the U.S. Army in 1996 after graduating from Auburn University in Alabama. He received his commission into the Quartermaster Course through the Reserve Officer Training Corps. He deployed both to Iraq and Afghanistan and was assigned to the U.S. Africa Command as the branch and Strategy and Posture Division chief.
Townsend became the commander of the 23rd Quartermaster Brigade in July of 2017. His awards and decorations include the Defense Superior Service Medal, Bronze Star Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters, Meritorious Service Medal with three Oak Leaf Clusters, Joint Staff Commendation Medal and Army Commendation Medal.
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