Army Chaplain recognized for commitment to families of the fallen

  • Published
  • By Christin Michaud
  • Air Force Mortuary Affairs Public Affairs
DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. --  Army Chap. (Maj.) Charles Wallace was recognized at the Charles C. Carson Center for Mortuary Affairs for his work with families of the fallen this year.

Army Col. Richard A. Teolis Jr. director of the Casualty and Mortuary Affairs Operation Center,  U.S. Army Human Resources Command, Fort Knox, Ky., awarded Chaplain Wallace the Meritorious Service Medal for his dedication, selfless service, leadership and genuine concern during a ceremony June 28.

"He has done an incredible job taking care of family members," said Colonel Teolis. "His dedication has been tremendous ... day in, day out, 24-hours a day," he said.

The impact Chaplain Wallace had on the mortuary mission was felt by more than just families.

The chaplain was also there as part of the joint effort taking care of the staff and providing them the support they need.

"He's a phenomenal team player," said Col. Thomas C. Joyce, Air Force Mortuary Affairs Operations commander.

Chaplain Wallace took the opportunity to share a message with the mortuary team who are often behind-the-scenes in the process.

"With my time with the families, I get to hear things you don't get to hear," he said. "I get to hear how honored the families are they got to come ... they are really truly honored by what goes on here and I hope you can get a sense of that."

The chaplain left his family and civilian job in Texas to serve his country and families of the fallen.

"I hope this position has changed you and enriched you," Colonel Teolis said. "Even though you sacrificed that time with your family, I hope that somehow, some way, the experience has filled the gap."