This message is from Obie Oakley.
Classmates,
Having just celebrated Memorial Day, I think it is fitting that we, as the Class of CHS '54, consider honoring the memory of our classmate who gave his life in the defense of our country.
Charles Mateer was killed in Laos when the helicopter he was piloting was shot down. He was the first from Mecklenburg County to die in the Vietnam War.
Each year, the Carolinas Freedom Foundation in collaboration with N.C. State University and General Hugh Shelton sponsor a leadership camp for rising high school seniors from across the state. Twenty of these students attend Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools. It is a conference based on the premise that leadership must be value based, ie, honesty, integrity, diversity, and compassion. General Shelton is the former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and an NCSU alumnus.
Since Charles was also a NCSU graduate, I thought it might be a special way to honor Charles by funding one or more of these deserving students and identify them as a Charles Mateer Scholar. The cost of a scholarship is $350 and I feel that collectively, we could underwrite at least one of these scholarships. Those of the class who wish to honor Charles in this manner are asked to send their contribution, in whatever amount to:
Carolinas Freedom Foundation
156 Huntley Place
Charlotte, NC 28207
As a member of the board of the Carolinas Freedom Foundation, I can assure you that 100% of the funds collected will go directly to this specific purpose.....honoring Charles. The Foundation is a qualified 501-c-3 organization and your contribution is fully tax deductible. Thank you for your consideration.
-Obie Oakley, CHS '54
