City of Staunton

Jan. 19, 2024 – Staunton City Council will publicly redesignate Green Street through proclamation at a special ceremony at 1 p.m., Jan. 26 in the Rita S. Wilson Council Chambers, City Hall, 116 West Beverley Street.

Green Street, in the Newtown Historic District, was originally named for General Nathanael Greene, a Revolutionary War hero. In addition to honoring Nathanael Greene, Green Street will be redesignated to also honor two African-American residents of Staunton who were war heroes in World War I and World War II, Capt. William Washington Green, Sr., and Capt. William W. Green, Jr.

Capt. Green, Sr., was a Buffalo Soldier, and was awarded both the Silver Star and Distinguished Service Cross for exceptional heroism on the battlefield. He retired to Staunton, living here until his death and is now buried in Thornrose Cemetery.

Capt. Green, Jr., was a pilot of the Tuskegee Airmen. He flew 123 combat missions in World War II, was shot down over Yugoslavia and continued fighting behind enemy lines. He also flew combat missions in the Korean War. Capt. Green grew up in Staunton, and was decorated for his aerial exploits and heroism. 

The dedication will include remarks by Mayor Stephen W. Claffey, Col. Melissa Patrick and members of the Thomas-Fields Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 7814. The ceremony will be streamed online to make it accessible for family members that live out-of-state.

Use this link to access the livestream through Zoom https://bit.ly/GreenStreetStaunton

Left: Capt. William Washington Green, Sr.
Right: Capt. William W. Green, Jr.