Phil Charte was many things...a gifted athlete, a smart, and really funny guy, he was a  captain of the wrestling team at Goffstown High School, in fact he was a State Champion at 135 pounds. He went to Parris Island, and became an outstanding Marine. My wife and I loved seeing him at the meets, and laughing, and joking with him about everything, and anything. Most importantly he was a good friend to my son and daughter.

Phil was a practical joker. At one particular wrestling meet, my wife fell asleep in the bleachers, and Phil talked some of the team into helping him, decorate her with a funny sign, and took pictures of her, to mark the occasion. He made us laugh, and was apart of something bigger, than a school team!

Phil will never know that he inspired my daughter to pursue serving our country. I am very proud to say that our family had some time to get to know Phil...it was not enough time.

On April 8th of this year, my daughter traveled to Lackland Air Force Base in Texas, to begin her Basic Military Training. on June 6th she will graduate and become Airman Ives. I know he is looking out for her, that's the kind of young man he was.

On September 7, 2010, Phil was killed in action in Afghanistan. He was posthumously awarded the Purple Heart, and a number of other medals. Phil was and is a Hero!

On Memorial Day we are blessed to have some time off to spend with our family. As is my habit... I will be visiting Phil. He is at rest in Boscawen, with his fallen brothers, and sisters...please take some time to visit, and remember these brave men and women, who have given all...for us!
Categories: People