Mike Charles remembered one year later

Almost one year after the tragic helicopter crash that claimed the lives of five servicemen including Lieutenant Colonel Michael Charles, a book is being written to honour his extraordinary life and legacy.

This was revealed during a memorial service attended by President Irfaan Ali, family members, friends, and colleagues. Charles was remembered for his contributions as a skilled pilot, dedicated serviceman, and hero.

Charles was killed in a horrific accident on December 7, 2023 when the Bell 412 helicopter he was piloting crashed in the jungles of Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni).

Chief of Defence Staff of the Guyana Defence Force, Brigadier Omar Khan reflected on the loss of not just Charles but four other servicemen: Brigadier Gary Beaton, Colonel Michael Shahoud, Lieutenant Colonel Sean Welcome, Warrant Officer Jason Khan.

Brigadier Khan said, “All of us are touched differently but as the Chief of Defence Staff, I give the instruction for them to go on that mission, I have my moments to reflect on this and I know if I had to do it again, that instruction would still be issued because these are men in uniform, men that are committed to their duties.”

He expressed his gratitude for the service of Charles and the four others and highlighted that “a book is in the making because this man had served exceedingly well.”

Charles’ widow, Lolita Fernandes spoke movingly about his magnetic personality and infectious laugh.

“Though Mike is no longer with us in the body, his spirit lives on in each and every one of our hearts and in the countless lives he has touched throughout his lifetime,” Fernandes said.

She added that her touched many lives not just through his actions but “simply being his authentic self.”

She described Charles as an extraordinary pilot, avid photographer and one of the most patriotic and dedicated Guyanese.

“Mike was not tall in stature but he had a mighty spirit, his voice was powerful and he used to fight for what he believed in – truth, honesty and justice,” the woman said as she asked those gathered to honour his memory by continuing to spread the love and light he brought in their lives.

President Ali like many others spoke fondly about Charles and said he was a shining example of what it means to be truly committed to duty and country.

“Through his service he crisscrossed the country as a seasoned aviator and his videographer skills showcased the splendor of the country,” President Ali said.

Though humble in spirit, the Head of State added that Charles was mighty in heart.

“On this the first anniversary of the passing of Mike, it still finds us – the nation and the family – grappling with pain, grief and disbelief. Time may have passed but the void he left in our hearts remain profound.”

President Ali said Mike has left a legacy that he sees other servicemen trying to embody.

“Today as they fly, they would take continuous images of the river banks, of the forests,” the President said while reflecting on Charles being described as the ‘eyes in the sky’ for the country’s rivers and forests.

Described as a hero the Guyana Defence Force, President Ali said the loss of Charles was not just personal to his family but the entire nation.