A man of many trades in many states, John Campbell Greenway was born in Huntsville, Alabama, on July 6, 1872. He attended the University of Virginia and was graduated in 1895 from the Sheffield Scientific School of Yale University. His early employment as a furnace helper for the Carnegie Steel Company was brief, as he joined Roosevelt's Rough Riders in the Spanish-American War. After earning a Silver Star for his courageous service at the Battle of San Juan Hill, he was recommended for brevet captain by Colonel Roosevelt.

Beginning in 1899, Greenway held executive positions in a number of mine, steel, and railroad companies throughout Arizona. He invented the turbo log washer and built the town of Ajo. Greenway served for one year as a regent of the University of Arizona before the United States entered World War I. During the war, he was especially praised for his heroic conduct in battle and was cited for bravery at Cambrai. France awarded him the Croix de Guerre, the Legion of Honor, and the Croix de l'Etoile. He also received a Distinguished Service Cross.

In 1919 Greenway became a colonel of the infantry, and three years later he was promoted to brigadier general. Full of stamina, John Greenway continued to be active in business until his death in New York City on January 19, 1926.

Biography courtesy National Statuary Hall.