Air Force ROTC pilot and Vietnam War veteran learned to fly at Reedley College
Alumni Profile: Reedley College – Captain Charles “Chuck” Shaheen
Captain Charles “Chuck” Shaheen
Orange Cove native Chuck Shaheen attended Reedley College upon graduating from Reedley High School in 1959. “I had a great experience at Reedley College, and that’s when I learned to fly,” he said. A fellow student introduced him to the Reedley College Flying Club. Known for its “hands on” Aviation Maintenance program, students took their flying lessons off campus. Working as a bus driver to help pay for school, Chuck put all of his earnings into learning to fly. He credits Dr. Iowerth “Ace” Griffith, Reedley College Dean of Students, for being a great mentor and giving him guidance. Chuck transferred to the University of Oregon and joined the Air Force ROTC.
In 1968, Chuck was flying special missions in Vietnam. The object of “Misty” was to fly fast and low above the Ho Chi Minh Trail to keep supplies from reaching the enemy. On his last mission, Chuck was paired with hometown rival, Dick Rutan from Dinuba. (Rutan would go on to command the Voyager as it made the first non-stop flight around the world). The pair was shot down in their F-100 and rescued in the water. Chuck has been awarded the Air Force Silver Star, four Distinguished Flying Crosses, 13 Air Medals, a Purple Heart, the PACAF Able Aeronaut Award, and the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry.
Captain Charles “Chuck” Shaheen
After logging more than 200 hours over enemy territory, he became a pilot for Continental Airlines. Chuck is now owner and vice president of marketing for Affiliated Equipment Financing, Inc. in Fresno, California. Chuck’s volunteer work has a special tie to Reedley College. He remains very active in the community as a member of the East Fresno Kiwanis Club.
The Kiwanis Clubs of Fresno-Madera Counties, along with the State Center Community College District, is preparing for the 13th Annual Torch of Excellence Banquet. The event recognizes student athletes who have excelled in their academic endeavors. It is a salute to the dedicated students from Reedley College and the other SCCCD campuses that are succeeding in both the classroom and on the field. The Torch of Excellence Banquet will be held May 11, 2009 at the Fresno Convention Center.
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