Charles H. Pitman facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Charles H. Pitman
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| Nickname(s) | Chuck |
| Born | 20 October 1935 Chicago, Illinois, U.S. |
| Died | 13 February 2020 (aged 84) Fort Worth, TX, U.S. |
| Allegiance | United States |
| Service/ |
United States Marine Corps |
| Years of service | 1955–1990 |
| Rank | Lieutenant General |
| Commands held | 1st Marine Aircraft Wing Marine Aviation Training Support Group 21 Marine Aircraft Group 36 H&MS-16 |
| Battles/wars | Vietnam War |
| Awards | Navy Distinguished Service Medal Silver Star Defense Superior Service Medal (2) Legion of Merit Distinguished Flying Cross (4) Bronze Star Medal Purple Heart |
Charles Henry Pitman Sr. (born October 20, 1935 – died February 13, 2020) was a brave leader in the United States Marine Corps. He reached the high rank of Lieutenant General. He was in charge of aviation for the Marines. General Pitman also played a part in a mission called Operation Eagle Claw in 1980. He retired in 1990 and passed away in 2020.
Helping the Police in 1973
In 1973, Lieutenant Colonel Pitman used a CH-46 military helicopter to help police during a very serious situation. He landed the helicopter near a hotel to bring armed officers closer to the action. His helicopter also flew over the hotel's roof to help the officers on the ground.
The helicopter crew and the person causing the trouble exchanged many rounds over several hours. After a long time, the person suddenly came out into the open. Pitman's helicopter, which was approaching to help again, also fired rounds. This helped the police to stop the dangerous situation.
After the Event
After the incident, the United States Marine Corps thought about holding a special hearing for Charles Pitman. This was because he took the helicopter without getting permission first. However, a politician named Edward Herbert, who was a chairman in the House of Representatives, suggested that the issue should be dropped.
The mayor of New Orleans at the time, Moon Landrieu, later said that without Pitman's helicopter and his flying skills, the situation would have been much worse. He believed the city owed Pitman a lot of thanks.
Antoine Saacks, a former police officer who was on Pitman's helicopter that day, also praised him. He said that Pitman and his crew were the true heroes. He had a lot of respect for General Pitman.
See also
- Mark Essex
