Lieutenant Commander Charles Z. Walker was a TopGun Pilot in the U.S. Navy. He accumulated over 2,000 flight hours, 465 carrier arrested landings, and nine combat missions. His awards include a Meritorious Service Medal, a Navy Commendation Medal, two Navy Achievement Medals, an Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Humanitarian Service Medal, and other unit, service, and campaign awards.

Completing the TopGun course was a major achievement in Walker’s career. As a training officer and strike fighter tactics instructor, he was an asset to the Navy and his influence is still felt today. He was responsible for the tactical training of pilots during workups and deployment. He mentored JOs, some of whom went on to complete the TopGun course themselves.

“Charles showed me how easy love can be. He was a perfect partner and my best friend. I still have every card and letter we sent each other. Rereading them is a beautiful trip back in time. He made me feel seen, heard, validated, and loved. I am so thankful for his love. And, he had an epic mustache, and he was a badass fighter pilot,” recalled his wife.