Charles Kruse, Jr. '53
Date of birth: February 11, 1928
Date of death: February 20, 1963
Age: 35
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 Lightand 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 and Audrey, 7 June 1953"
Chuck was lost when his A3J Vigilante crashed while landing aboard USS Enterprise (CVAN 65) in the Mediterranean Sea on February 20, 1963. He has a memory marker in Arlington National Cemetery. His wife did not remarry; they had four daughters and a son.
Class of 1953
Charles is one of 62 members of the Class of 1953 in Memorial Hall.
