Death of a ClassMate - Rear Adm. Charles Bryan "Charlie" Hunter, USN (Ret.) - 3rd Co.

Rear Adm. Charles Bryan "Charlie"  Hunter, USN (Ret.), 86, of Gulfport, passed away Feb. 24, 2017. Admiral Hunter was born in Jasper, FL and served for over 30 years in the United States Navy. Admiral Hunter graduated from the US Naval Academy in May 1954 and was designated a Naval Aviator in 1956. During his career he served multiple tours of duty as a pilot in Viet Nam, including Commanding Officer of Attack Squadron Eighty-Five. He also served as Commanding Officer of the USS El Paso (LKA-117) and Commanding Officer of the USS Saratoga (CV-60). After a tour assigned to US Naval Forces Europe in London, England, Admiral Hunter served as Commander Medium Attack Electronic Warfare Wing at Whidbey Island, Washington. His last duty Station was MacDill AFB, as Chief of Staff, Joint Deployment Agency. Admiral Hunter's decorations include the Navy Cross, Legion of Merit, Distinguished Flying Cross, Meritorious Service Medal, Air Medal, and Navy Commendation Medal. Charlie is survived by his beloved wife of 62 years, Xandra; son, Bryan; and granddaughter, Laura. He was predeceased by his son, Tim. He was a longtime member of the Pasadena Yacht and Country Club. A memorial service will be held at 1 pm Saturday, March 4 at the David C. Gross Funeral Home in St. Petersburg. Interment will follow at Arlington National Cemetery.