Connecticut State Police Trooper First Class Walter Greene died "following a courageous battle with cancer as the result of his response and service in support of New York City in the aftermath of the terrorist attack on September 11, 2001," Malloy said in a statement.
Greene was a member of the 101st Training Troop, and most recently was assigned to the Traffic Services Unit.
“Our hearts are with the family of Trooper First Class Walter Greene – a man who dedicated his life’s work to protecting the people of Connecticut and our country,” Malloy said. “He is a hero and passionately served our nation in the Marine Corps before joining the Connecticut State Police."
Greene served in the U.S. Marine Corps for four years before joining the state police on June 1, 1990. During the initial part of his career, he was assigned to Troops A in Southbury and G in Bridgeport, and then to the Statewide Cooperative Crime Control Task Force.
He served much of the latter part of his career in the Traffic Services Unit. Greene also worked as a Master Instructor for Motor Services since 2008, as well as a K-9 handler for several years. He was an avid supporter of the Special Olympics and actively participated in the Law Enforcement Torch Run for many years.
State Sen. Bob Duff, D-Norwalk, said on his Facebook page that Greene lived in Norwalk and that he was a "true public servant."
“A Norwalk resident who went to ground zero after the September 11th attacks, Trooper Greene was a true public servant. His sense of duty and bravery during that dangerous time ultimately cost him his life," Duff wrote.
“We wish Trooper Greene and his family peace and we are grateful for his service and the opportunity to have met such a fine person.”
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