Colonel Charles Spieth Jr.

United States Air Force (ret.)

1920- 2017

Charles Spieth Jr. passed away peacefully in his sleep on March 20, 2017. "Chuck" Spieth was born on June 20, 1920, in Woodlawn, NY.  He spent his childhood years and received his early education in Little Neck, NY.

As a teen, Chuck excelled in track and was actively involved in Boy Scouts where he earned the prestigious honor of Eagle Scout. He also served in the 7th Regiment N.Y. National Guard and was recognized as an exceptional marksman.  Later, Chuck graduated from West Point, (USMA) Class of June 1943.

After graduation, he flew 38 combat missions with the 498th bomb group flying B29's out of Saipan during WWII.  Most pilots are given nicknames and, Chuck was named "The Neon Kid" by the New York Times due to his numerous successful raids over Tokyo.

His devotion to duty and courage under all conditions served as an inspiration to his fellow crew members.  Chuck was awarded the prestigious Distinguished Flying Cross for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flights during World War II.

Following the war, his career led him to the Strategic Air Command (USAF) where he flew B47's and was Director of Operations at Walker AFB. Afterwards, he worked at SAC headquarters where he developed war plans as a chief p lanner at Offutt AFB. Chuck finished his military career serving on the National Security Council at The Pentagon before retiring in September of 1964.

Following his career in the Air Force, his immense passion and desire to contribute further to aviation led him to American Airlines. Chuck went on to serve as the Senior Director of Flight Operations, retiring in 1984.

Chuck Spieth is preceded in death by his brothers, Robert Spieth and William Spieth; Colonel Spieth is survived by his loving wife, Patricia Spieth; his son, Dale Spieth and wife Terri; his step children, Taylor Grove and Lisa Harding; his grandchildren, Brittany Hicks and Kelsey Keller; and his great grandchildren Harper, Lila, and Rand Michael. Chuck also leaves behind several extended family members and treasured friends.

Colonel Charles Spieth will be laid to rest at the West Point Post Cemetery (USMA) on Wednesday, 29 March 2017, at 1000 hours. In lieu of flowers, the family requests a donation to your local Salvation Army.