Charles Ronald Davis
Charles Ronald Davis
Years of Service:
10
Highest Rank:
O-3
Medals & Awards:
Career Highlights:
MAJOR CHARLES RONALD DAVIS
U.S. Air Force Academy, Class of 1959, Cadet Squadron: CS-04
Highest Rank (Active Duty): Captain (O-3)
Highest Rank (USAFR): Major (O-4)
THE JOURNEY TO THE ACADEMY
THE JOURNEY TO THE ACADEMY
Charles Ronald Davis, known to his friends as "C.R.," brought a blend of Southern roots and New England discipline to the Class of 1959. Born in Arkansas, he moved to Tilton, New Hampshire, where he secured his appointment. He arrived at Lowry Air Force Base as part of the historic first class, ready to help shape the traditions of the new Academy.
CADET LIFE
In Cadet Squadron 04, C.R. was regarded as a steady, reliable presence. His classmates in the Polaris yearbook remembered him as a "quiet, serious student" who possessed a dry wit and a selfless nature. He was known for his willingness to drop his own studies to assist a struggling classmate, embodying the spirit that defined the "First Class." Beyond the books, he was an active participant in intramural sports and was noted for maintaining an optimistic outlook even under the pressures of the Fourth Class System.
MILITARY SERVICE AND BEYOND
After graduating in 1959, Davis was commissioned and served on active duty during the height of the Cold War. While his active-duty tenure concluded in the mid-1960s at the rank of Captain, he continued his military affiliation in the U.S. Air Force Reserve, eventually earning the rank of Major.
In 1971, he began a dual-track career that would span decades. He founded a trucking business, showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit, and joined Delta Air Lines as a pilot. For the next 38 years, he commanded commercial aircraft across the globe, retiring in 2009 with a reputation for the same precision and reliability he displayed as a cadet.
________________________________________
SERVICE ASSIGNMENTS
Year Rank Duty / Assignment
1955–1959 Cadet USAFA Undergraduate Studies (CS-04)
1959–1965 2nd Lt to Capt Active Duty Service
1971–2009 Captain Delta Air Lines Pilot
1971–1980s* Major U.S. Air Force Reserve
1971–Present Owner Davis Trucking / Commercial Interests
