Charles Z. Walker

Lieutenant Commander Walker was born in Santa Clara, CA and raised in Fairfax, VA. He graduated from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, receiving a Bachelor's of Science in Aerospace Engineering. Following graduation, LCDR Walker was commissioned as an Ensign through the Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps in December 2008. In January 2009, he reported to Pensacola, FL for Aviation Preflight Training and was designated a Naval Aviator in May 2011. LCDR Walker's first operational assignment was with Strike Fighter Squadron 195 (VFA-195) based in Atsugi, Japan. During his tour with the "Dambusters" he deployed with USS GEORGE WASHINGTON (CVN 73) and served as Aircraft Division Officer, Head Landing Signal Officer, and Assistant Operations Officer. Following his tour with VFA-195, he attended TOPGUN Class 03-15. In August 2015 he reported to Strike Fighter Weapons School Pacific for duty as Strike Fighter Tactics Instructor where he served as the Assistant Operations Officer and was the Air-to-Air Employment Subject Matter Expert. In February 2018, LCDR Walker joined Strike Fighter Squadron One Five One (VFA-151) the "Vigilantes," in Lemoore CA. During his tour he served as the Training Officer, where he oversaw the tactical training of 15 pilots during workups and a combat deployment. He deployed on the 2018-2019 around the world cruise on USS JOHN C. STENNIS (CVN 74) and supported Operations FREEDOM'S SENTINEL, INHERENT RESOLVE, and DELIBERATE RESOLVE. Lieutenant Commander Walker accumulated over 2,000 flight hours, 465 carrier arrested landings, and 9 combat missions. A lifelong Boston Red Sox fan and Philadelphia Eagles fan, he loved sports as well as throwing a baseball. Charles was an avid skier and honed his skills while stationed in Japan. He is survived by his wife, Katie, and parents, Commanders Rick R. Walker and Debra A. Huey-Walker (USN-Retired).