CHARLES H. KRUSE, JR., LCDR, USN
Charles Kruse, Jr. '53
Lucky Bag
From the 1953 Lucky Bag:
CHARLES HENRY KRUSE, JR.
West New York, New Jersey
"Chuck" was an air-minded man from the beginning. He came USNA as radio-gunner of a PBM, but hopes to become a jet-jockey upon graduation. At USNA he was one of the guiding minds of the Aeronautical Engineering Club. Among his memories are to be found private flying, duck hunting and sharing the chow from home. This "salt" spent many hours aboard the Highland Light and sailed this vessel in the '51 Newport-Annapolis Ocean Race. Chuck's modesty and perseverance plus a strong desire for a Navy career make him tops from his socks up.
He was also a member of the Engineering Club.
CHARLES HENRY KRUSE, JR.
West New York, New Jersey
"Chuck" was an air-minded man from the beginning. He came USNA as radio-gunner of a PBM, but hopes to become a jet-jockey upon graduation. At USNA he was one of the guiding minds of the Aeronautical Engineering Club. Among his memories are to be found private flying, duck hunting and sharing the chow from home. This "salt" spent many hours aboard the Highland Light and sailed this vessel in the '51 Newport-Annapolis Ocean Race. Chuck's modesty and perseverance plus a strong desire for a Navy career make him tops from his socks up.
He was also a member of the Engineering Club.
Loss
Chuck was lost when his A3J Vigilante crashed while landing aboard USS Enterprise (CVAN 65) in the Mediterranean Sea on February 20, 1963.
Other Information
From researcher Kathy Franz: "His parents were Charles and Sophie Kruse. He married Audrey Klod on June 6, 1953."
He has a memory marker in Arlington National Cemetery. His wife did not remarry; they had four daughters and a son.
Photographs
"Chuck and Audrey, 6 June 1953"
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