Born on June 2, 1962, Lieutenant Colonel Michael Charles commenced his dedicated career of service to the country on March 1, 1981, at the age of 18. His enlistment marked the beginning of 40 years of exemplary and devoted service, navigating the skies above Guyana’s extensive hinterland and borders.
In the early part of his career, he served at the 1 Infantry Battalion as a Platoon Commander before venturing into aviation in 1984. Upon joining the Air Corps, he assumed the role of a Trainee Pilot, endowing the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) and Guyana with a pilot and patriot whose immeasurable love for his country was witnessed by all.
Lieutenant Colonel Michael Charles served as an officer for 29 years before retiring in 2010. Throughout his service, he completed various military and aviation courses. His dedication was recognized with the Military Efficiency Medal in 1997, awarded during his 16th year of service. He also received the 40th Anniversary Medal.
Returning to service in 2011, Lieutenant Colonel Charles dedicated the last 12 years to the GDF Air Corps. His expertise proved invaluable in search and rescue operations and medical evacuations. His extensive aviation training included Commercial Pilot Certification in China, Bell 412 Helicopter Refresher in Barbados, Helicopter Instrument in Aruba, Bell 412 Pilot Training, and the Bell 412 Pilot Recurrent in the United States of America. The Bell 206 Helicopter Ground and Flight training in the United States of America. In 2021, he was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel by the President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali.
Widely known as Mike Charles, Lieutenant Colonel Michael Charles lived and died in service. His years in the skies were shared with all Guyanese, as he captured and conveyed the wonders of the vast country through videos and images. While his infectious smile, wonderful anecdotes, and commitment to service will be missed, his legacy will endure.
