Chuck Wilson

Cold War, Gulf War

Charles P. "Chuck" Wilson II is a distinguished U-2 reconnaissance pilot, recognized for his leadership in military aviation and national security policy. Raised in Indianapolis, Indiana, Wilson graduated from Indiana University in 1977 before earning his pilot wings at Reese Air Force Base in 1982. Over his career, he accumulated more than 3,800 flight hours in aircraft including the T-37, T-38, KC-135A/Q, TR-1, and U-2.

Wilson began his flying career as a KC-135Q pilot, refueling SR-71 Blackbirds, before being selected in 1986 to fly the Lockheed U-2 "Dragon Lady." He served as a flight commander, instructor pilot, and aircraft commander at Beale Air Force Base, later leading U-2 operational deployments across Europe, the Pacific, and Southwest Asia.

During the Gulf War era, Wilson commanded the 4402nd Reconnaissance Squadron (Provisional) in Saudi Arabia, overseeing U-2 missions that supported United Nations efforts to monitor Iraqi compliance with weapons inspections. His operational report after a hostile mission was instrumental in securing upgrades for the U-2’s defensive systems.

In 1995, as commander of the 5th Reconnaissance Squadron "Blackcats" at Osan Air Base, South Korea, Wilson flew the first operational mission of the upgraded U-2S and led his unit to receive the prestigious Lockheed Advanced Development Corporation "Hughes Trophy" as the top reconnaissance squadron in the 9th Reconnaissance Wing.

He also performed operational testing of the prototype S1034 pressure suit, enhancing high-altitude pilot safety.

Beyond his flying achievements, Wilson held key leadership roles at the Pentagon, including Chief of Air Reconnaissance Plans and Programs on the Joint Staff and Director of Manned Reconnaissance in the Defense Airborne Reconnaissance Office. He later served as Director of the Office of International Security Operations at the Department of State, acting as the senior U.S. military representative and advisor on operational military matters.

After retiring in 2004, Wilson transitioned to the aerospace industry and became a docent at the National Air and Space Museum, author, and frequent speaker on military aviation. He remains active in veterans’ affairs and is recognized as a leading advocate for the U-2 program, maintaining strong connections within the reconnaissance community.

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