It is with deep sadness that the Officers and Members of the Second District VFD&RS announce the passing of Life Member John P. “Chuck” Charles on December 9, 2020.

Chuck joined the Department in 1992 focusing on the emergency medical services. He became an EMT, and soon established himself as one of the more reliable daytime responders. During his active years, he was always rewarded with one of the Top Ten Response awards each year. He was awarded the EMS Provider of the Year Award in 2002, and the prestigious Harry Koehler Memorial Award in 2008. Chuck served as an EMS Engineer for 10 years. He became a Life Member in 2018. He could be seen many times at the station in the early morning hours, checking out his beloved ambulances to ensure that they were mechanically sound and ready to go.
Prior to joining the Department, Chuck proudly served his country for 20 years in the United States Navy, serving during the Korean and Viet Nam conflicts. One of his duties during the latter years of his military career was serving as a plane Captain on the maintenance crew for Blue Angel #3.

Following his retirement from the United States Navy, Chuck was employed for 20 years as a firefighter at the Naval Air Station, Patuxent River, MD, retiring just prior to joining the Second District VFD&RS.

Always congenial and friendly, Chuck loved sports, fishing, dancing, singing, and playing music.

He will be sorely missed by his family and friends.

We will update this article as more information becomes available.