Captain Charles Schwabe, right, assumes command on an infantry rifle company of the 82nd Division (Airborne) in Vietnam, 1969.

Charles L. Schwabe retired from the U.S. Army in 1988 as a lieutenant colonel. Among his personal awards and decorations for service in Vietnam are three bronze stars, the air medal with “V” device for valor, the Vietnam Cross of Gallantry and the combat infantryman’s badge. He retired as associate district judge of Greer County, Oklahoma in 2003 and lives with his wife Renee on a farm in Muskogee County raising cattle.

Charles has written his autobiography, as well as two novels. Fading Away, an account of his personal experiences during two combat tours in Vietnam, is his first published work.

“Inevitably, wars fade into history,” says Charles, adding, “Memories of war in those who served last the rest of their lives. With speed as astounding as my own advancing years, Vietnam has become history to the young, a vaguely known episode which occurred briefly when grandpa was young. Memories of my experience continue to affect me. I remember and would like to tell you my story.”

 Books by Charles

Fading Away: An Aging Vietnam Infantry Veteran’s Remembrances