Wilkes County Veterans History Project: Charlie Rhodes

Charles F. Rhodes

Service #: 2283262

I was born in Huntington, LI, NY on 6/16/1949 to Elizabeth and William Rhodes. I was one of 8 children (I was fourth in line). and the only one to serve in the military. I went to Half Hollows HS in Dix Hills, NY. 

I was 20 years old when I joined the Marines in Sept 1966 (I would have been drafted anyway). I did do basic training at Parris Island, SC. I was with the LAAM's unit which was Light Antiaircraft Missiles. From there transferred to California - More training - then to Vietnam on Sept 1967. I was attached to the 1st Battalion Amtrac. I was there four months when I got shot on Jan 20, 1968. I was flown to Japan for one month and then to St. Albans Hospital in Brooklyn, NY for five months. After that went to Quantico, VA for about a year then discharged Oct 1969.

When on patrol never wore a helmet nor flakjacket. All we had to wear was a beret. I was discharged three years and one month after I joined. 

I went back to work after the service. I belong now to the VFW and DAV and Purple Heart Organization. The Vietnam Veterans were so dishonored when they came home and many were told to change their clothes before coming home so they wouldn't get spit upon! It was disgraceful the way they were treated after fighting for their country and everyone's freedom! There was no fanfare for them!

Weapon Carried was an M79 Grenade Launcher and a 45. 

Highest Rank: Corporal E4, in 1st Battalion

Medals and Awards: Purple Heart, Good Conduct Medal

Not a Prisoner of War, was Injured in Service.

Biographical Data Form

Charles F. Rhodes

Caucasian, Male

Branch of Service: Marines USMC

Enlisted, Served: Sept 1966 to Oct 1969

Highest Rank: Corporal E4

Unit: 1st Battalion

Conflict: Vietnam

Locations of Military Service: Parris Island, SC.,California, Vietnam, Quantico, VA.

Medals and Awards: Purple Heart, Good Conduct Medal

Special Duties: I was in charge of the M79 Grenade Launcher.

Not a Prisoner of War, Was Injured in Service.