Charles Robert Linton
Colonel, U.S. Air Force

Charles Robert Linton was born in Brooklyn, NY, on 12 April 1932, son of George Edward and Maude Guckes Linton. He married his high school sweetheart, Margaret McDonnell ("Peggy") in 1954.

After graduating from the U.S. Military Academy in 1954, Linton served his country during a 30 year career in the U.S. Air Force, retiring in 1984. During his career, he was a C-130, B-47 and T-39 pilot; a highly decorated Vietnam War Veteran; and a Staff Officer and Engineer on Project Shedlight.

He continued his education while in the Air Force with a Master of Science in Electrical Engineering from Stanford University in 1961 and a Master of Business Administration from George Washington University in 1966.

Medals, Awards & Badges

Defense Superior Service Medal
Legion of Merit
Distinguished Flying Cross
Meritorious Service Medal
Air Medal
Air Force Commendation Medal
Air Force Presidential Unit Citation
Navy-Marine Corps Presidential Unit Citation
Air Force Outstanding Unit Award
National Defense Service Medal
Vietnam Service Medal
Vietnam Campaign Medal
Command Pilot Badge

In Retirement

Charles settled in Clifton, VA, with his family in 1973, where he became well-known in the community as "The Colonel." His wife Peggy and daughter Dede predeceased him, they were killed in an auto accident in 1976, and his son Kevin in 2007.

In 1989, he moved to Remington, VA, with his son Doug, where he enjoyed assisting him in running a horse and cattle farm. He shared many meals and times with friends at The Corner Deli in Remington….2 meals a day, 6 days a week, for 25 years.