11/06/2026
Meet our Guest of Honor at this year's Marine Corps birthday celebration.
CONGRATULATIONS TO CHARLES “CHUCK” WRIGHT!
2016 Congressional Veteran Commendation Award Recipient. Presented by Congressman Michael C. Burgess, M.D.
United States Marine Corps Veteran | Texas Veterans Commissioner | Community Leader
The Marine Corps League, LCpl Jacob D. Hayes Detachment of Collin County, proudly recognizes and congratulates fellow Marine Charles “Chuck” Wright, a distinguished United States Marine Corps veteran, Texas Veterans Commissioner, and lifelong advocate for those who have served our great nation.
In 2016, Chuck received the prestigious Congressional Veteran Commendation Award from Congressman Michael C. Burgess, representing Texas’ 26th Congressional District.
This distinguished honor recognizes veterans who have demonstrated exceptional military service, patriotism, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to serving their communities long after leaving the Armed Forces.
Chuck’s life exemplifies the very principles upon which this award was established: Honor, Courage, Commitment, and Service Before Self.
A Proud Military Heritage and a Lifetime of Service
Chuck’s commitment to military service began long before he wore the uniform of a United States Marine.
A proud Air Force brat, Chuck grew up surrounded by the values of duty, discipline, patriotism, and sacrifice. His father served in the United States Army during World War II before continuing his military career in the United States Air Force, eventually retiring as a Senior Master Sergeant.
That family legacy of service helped shape Chuck’s character and inspired his own journey into the Armed Forces.
Chuck graduated from Randolph High School near San Antonio, Texas, where he distinguished himself both academically and athletically. He lettered on a football team that advanced to the state semifinals and earned third place in the state persuasive speaking competition during his senior year.
His leadership abilities continued to develop at the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA), where he earned a degree in Economics and actively participated in Student Government.
Chuck also holds a unique distinction in the university’s military history: he became the first Marine Corps officer commissioned from UTSA.
Answering the Call: United States Marine Corps
Following his commissioning, Chuck proudly served as an officer and aviator in the United States Marine Corps.
He earned his wings as a CH-46 Sea Knight helicopter pilot, flying one of the Marine Corps’ most recognizable and versatile aircraft.
During his military career, Chuck completed multiple Western Pacific (WESTPAC) deployments throughout Asia, supporting the Marine Corps’ expeditionary mission overseas.
The CH-46 Sea Knight was a critical component of Marine Corps aviation, providing assault support, troop transportation, logistical operations, and the ability to move Marines and equipment in demanding environments.
Serving as a Marine Corps aviator required exceptional discipline, sound judgment, technical proficiency, and the ability to lead under challenging circumstances.
Those qualities would become defining characteristics of Chuck’s leadership throughout his professional career and decades of service to the veteran community.
Although his active military service eventually concluded, Chuck never stopped serving his fellow Marines and veterans.
For Chuck, the title of United States Marine is not simply a chapter in his life. It is a lifelong responsibility.
Appointed by Governor Greg Abbott to Serve Texas Veterans
One of Chuck’s most significant accomplishments came when Texas Governor Greg Abbott appointed him as one of five commissioners of the Texas Veterans Commission (TVC) in March 2024.
This appointment placed Chuck in a position of statewide leadership, helping establish policies and guide an agency responsible for supporting approximately 1.6 million Texas veterans and their families.
Texas is home to one of the largest veteran populations in the United States, making the commission’s mission especially important.
As a Texas Veterans Commissioner, Chuck helps shape policies and priorities that support veterans through programs involving benefits, employment, education, claims assistance, and other essential services.
His appointment represents the culmination of years of dedicated advocacy, volunteer leadership, and a genuine commitment to improving the lives of those who have served.
Chuck’s philosophy of service is inspired by a statement from President George W. Bush:
“I want to spend the rest of my life serving Veterans.”
These words are more than a quotation to Chuck. They represent the guiding principle behind his continued work on behalf of America’s military veterans.
His leadership demonstrates that service to one’s country does not end with military retirement or separation. It continues through advocacy, mentorship, volunteerism, and the willingness to make a difference in the lives of others.
Decades of Leadership and Veterans Advocacy
Long before his appointment to the Texas Veterans Commission, Chuck had already established an impressive record of service to veterans, military families, and his community.
He served as Vice Chair of the Texas Veterans Commission’s Fund for Veterans’ Assistance, helping support programs that provide critical resources to veterans and their families throughout Texas.
Chuck also served on the Dallas-Fort Worth USO Board, supporting an organization dedicated to strengthening America’s military service members by keeping them connected to family, home, and country.
His civic involvement extended to the Frisco Visitors and Convention Board, where he contributed his leadership and experience to the growth and development of the community.
Throughout these roles, Chuck has consistently demonstrated his belief that leadership carries a responsibility to serve others.
Whether helping veterans access assistance, supporting military families, or participating in community initiatives, his efforts reflect the Marine Corps values that have guided him throughout his life.
Honoring Gold Star Families and Preserving Their Sacrifice
Among Chuck’s most meaningful community accomplishments was his leadership of the Frisco Gold Star Family Monument project, undertaken in partnership with the Woody Williams Foundation.
Gold Star Families are families who have lost a loved one in military service to our nation.
Their sacrifices are immeasurable, and their loved ones’ legacies deserve to be remembered and honored by future generations.
Chuck led the effort to establish a lasting tribute recognizing these families and the extraordinary price they have paid for America’s freedom.
The monument serves not only as a place of remembrance but also as a powerful reminder that behind every fallen service member stands a family whose sacrifice continues long after the battlefield falls silent.
Chuck’s involvement in this project reflects his deep understanding that honoring our military means honoring not only those who served but also the families who stood beside them.
Preserving the Legacy of R. Lee Ermey
Chuck’s dedication to preserving Marine Corps history extends to his work honoring one of the most recognizable Marines in American popular culture: R. Lee Ermey, the decorated Marine veteran and actor widely remembered for his portrayal of Gunnery Sergeant Hartman in the motion picture Full Metal Jacket.
Chuck has been working on publishing a biography of Ermey, helping preserve the story of a Marine whose military service, personality, and contributions to American culture left a lasting impression on generations of service members.
In addition, Chuck organizes the annual R. Lee Ermey Memorial Golf Classic, supporting Homeless Veteran Services of Dallas.
This charitable initiative brings together supporters of the military community while raising awareness and assistance for veterans experiencing homelessness.
Through these efforts, Chuck continues to connect Marine Corps heritage with meaningful action, ensuring that remembrance and respect translate into tangible support for veterans in need.
Professional Excellence and Financial Leadership
Beyond his military and volunteer service, Chuck has established himself as a respected financial professional.
A Certified Financial Planner, Chuck founded Lone Star Wealth Strategies, a financial planning firm focused on helping individuals and families prepare for retirement and pursue long-term financial security.
His professional career reflects the same commitment to preparation, integrity, accountability, and responsible leadership that characterized his military service.
Balancing professional responsibilities with extensive volunteer commitments, Chuck has demonstrated that success is measured not only by personal accomplishments but also by the positive impact one makes on others.
A Deep and Historic Texas Heritage
Chuck’s dedication to Texas is rooted in a remarkable family history.
He is both a sixth- and seventh-generation Texan and a direct descendant of James J. Ross, one of Stephen F. Austin’s Old Three Hundred settlers.
The Old Three Hundred were among the original families who settled in Mexican Texas under Stephen F. Austin during the early nineteenth century, helping establish communities that would become part of the foundation of modern Texas.
Chuck takes great pride in this heritage and maintains a strong interest in Texas history, its people, and the generations who helped shape the Lone Star State.
His family’s long-standing connection to Texas reinforces his commitment to preserving its history while serving the veterans and communities who call it home.
Family, Faithfulness, and the Next Generation
Despite his extensive professional and community responsibilities, Chuck’s greatest pride remains his family.
Chuck and his wife, Michelle Wright, raised two sons, Mason and Travis, both graduates of Wakeland High School.
Both sons earned the distinguished rank of Eagle Scout, the highest rank attainable in the Boy Scouts of America, demonstrating leadership, perseverance, character, and dedication to community service.
Mason and Travis also earned the President’s Academic Award while attending Collin College, reflecting their commitment to academic achievement.
Travis has continued his education at the University of Texas at Dallas, where he is approaching graduation.
The Wright family’s accomplishments reflect the same values of education, service, leadership, and personal responsibility that have guided Chuck throughout his life.
When he is not working or serving veterans, Chuck and Michelle enjoy traveling, reading, and exploring their shared passion for Texas history.
A Proud Member of the Collin County Marine Corps League
Chuck is a Life Member of the Marine Corps League, maintaining his lifelong connection to the brotherhood of Marines who have proudly served our nation.
His association with the Marine Corps League, including the LCpl Jacob D. Hayes Detachment in Collin County, reflects his enduring commitment to the traditions, camaraderie, and values of the United States Marine Corps.
The Marine Corps League exists to preserve the traditions of the Corps, promote the interests of Marines and their families, and continue serving veterans and communities across America.
Chuck embodies that mission through his leadership, volunteerism, and unwavering dedication to fellow service members.
His accomplishments serve as an example of what it means to live the Marine Corps motto:
Semper Fidelis — Always Faithful.
Congressional Recognition for a Lifetime of Service
On November 10, 2016, Chuck was honored with the Congressional Veteran Commendation Award, presented by Congressman Michael C. Burgess during the annual Salute Our Veterans luncheon in Highland Village, Texas.
This prestigious recognition celebrates veterans who have distinguished themselves through honorable military service and continued contributions to their communities.
Chuck’s recognition was especially meaningful because it acknowledged a lifetime of commitment extending far beyond his years in uniform.
From his service as a Marine Corps helicopter pilot to his leadership in veterans organizations, support for Gold Star Families, charitable initiatives, and eventual appointment as a Texas Veterans Commissioner, Chuck has consistently demonstrated the values of a servant leader.
His story is a powerful reminder that the true measure of a veteran’s service is not limited to the years spent wearing the uniform, but also includes the lives touched and the communities strengthened afterward.
Congratulations, Marine Chuck Wright!
The Marine Corps League, LCpl Jacob D. Hayes Detachment of Collin County, proudly congratulates Charles “Chuck” Wright on his 2016 Congressional Veteran Commendation Award and recognizes his extraordinary contributions to the United States Marine Corps, the State of Texas, and our nation’s veteran community.
Chuck’s journey from a military family and Marine Corps aviator to a statewide veterans leader represents a remarkable legacy of patriotism, perseverance, and service.
He has dedicated his life to honoring those who served, remembering those who made the ultimate sacrifice, supporting Gold Star Families, preserving Marine Corps history, and ensuring that veterans receive the recognition and assistance they have earned.
Chuck, your leadership and unwavering commitment to our veterans represent the very best of the United States Marine Corps.
Your accomplishments are a source of pride for your fellow Marines, the Marine Corps League, and the communities you continue to serve.
Thank you for your military service, your continued advocacy for Texas veterans, and your dedication to preserving the legacy of those who have worn our nation’s uniform.
Once a Marine, Always a Marine.
Semper Fidelis, Marine!
Department of Texas, Marine Corps League Toys For Tots Collin County
