Charles Lawrence

Early Dreams and Military Beginnings

Charles Lawrence, born in 1924 on a Gordonsville, VA, family farm, dreamed of serving his country. At 15, he and his friends tried to enlist in the military, but his mother intervened, proving he was too young. By 18, Charles was drafted into the U.S. Army before finishing high school. He trained as a Wench Operator at Fort Battalion and shipped out to Europe in 1944 aboard the Queen Mary.

World War II Service

During World War II, Charles Lawrence and his unit performed military police duties. They guarded hotels, roads, and public spaces to ensure the safety of civilians in liberated areas of France. These efforts supported the Allied forces as they pushed through Europe. After the war, Charles attended the Engineer School at Fort Belvoir, VA, to continue his training.

Courageous Efforts in Korea

In 1950, Charles Lawrence returned to active duty for the Korean War. Serving with the First Cavalry Eighth Combat Engineers, he worked to build bridges, lay mines, and create escape routes. His unit crossed mountains and faced significant challenges, using innovative strategies to hold enemy forces at bay. Their actions contributed to critical victories and the eventual ceasefire.

Life After Military Service

Charles Lawrence retired from the Army in 1953 after ten years of service, which included tours in Europe, Korea, and Japan. Following his military career, Charles pursued various professions, including roles as a Smithsonian Institute Special Policeman, produce manager, store manager, and business owner.

Community Leadership and Service

In 2003, Charles returned to Gordonsville and continued serving others. Twice widowed, he married Ann Jones Lawrence, pastor of Zion Grove Baptist Church. Charles became a missionary with Zion Grove Baptist Church and Love Outreach Ministry. His work included driving individuals to appointments, delivering food, and supporting local churches.

Honoring a Hometown Hero

Charles Lawrence’s lifelong dedication to service did not go unnoticed. ALCOVA Mortgage’s Greg Dudley, Branch Manager of the Gordonsville Branch, presented Charles with the Hometown Hero award. This recognition celebrates Charles’s impact on his community and his remarkable military service.