"Chuck was born July 4, 1952 in Greensboro, North Carolina. At the age of five, he and his mother moved to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania where he completed grade school and high school. Upon high school graduation in 1970 at age 17, Chuck joined the U.S. Marine Corps — at a time when many young Americans were dodging the draft or fleeing to Canada, Mexico and Europe because of the dangers and unpopularity of the Vietnam War. Chuck graduated from boot camp at Parris Island, South Carolina, and served two years of active duty in the Marine infantry (1970 to 1972). Chuck says joining the Marines was one of the best decisions he ever made. He states the Corps taught him the importance of discipline and leadership, how to work as a team, and the virtues of honor, courage, and commitment."