With heavy hearts, it is announced that MGySgt Charles P. Hedrick Jr., USMC (retired) has reported to his final duty station. Charles, known as "Chuck" to friends and family passed away peacefully at the age of 79 surrounded by his loved ones. He is preceded in death by his beloved wife Matilda, his parents Charles Preston Sr. and Lulu Hedrick and sister Carol Berger. Charles is survived by his four children; Terence J. Hedrick, Charles P. Hedrick, Dwayne M. Hedrick, and Elizabeth S. Hedrick, Daughters-In-Law Isabel Hedrick, Jordan Hedrick, grand-daughters, Cierra Padilla, Taylor Newman, Cara Hedrick, Erin Hedrick, four great-granddaughters, a great-grandson and sister Rosemary Ging.
He was born in Hutchinson, Kansas. His father worked in the grain industry and transferred to Enid, Oklahoma where Chuck spent his early teens until he graduated from Memorial High School. In July of 1959, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps with his best friend, Paul Ayers.
Shortly after arriving at Argentia Naval Base in Newfoundland, Canada, a young Matilda McCue would catch Chuck's eye. Together Chuck and Matilda would build a family and a life that would take them across borders and several duty stations. They celebrated over four decades of marriage before she passed away in July 2010.
Master Gunnery Sergeant Hedrick celebrated a long and distinguished career in the Corps. He gallantly served in the Republic of Vietnam and his decorations include; Rifle Expert Badge (7th Award), Pistol Expert Badge (2nd Award), Good Conduct Medal (w/1 silver start & 3 bronze stars), National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal (w/2 stars), Meritorious Mast (2nd Award), Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, Navy Achievement Medal (w/Combat "V"), Combat Action Ribbon, Republic of Vietnam Meritorious Unit Citation Civil Gallantry Cross Color, (w/Palm), Presidential Unit Citation, Meritorious Unit Commendation (w/2 stars), Letter of Appreciation (2nd Award), Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon (w/1 star), Navy Commendation Medal.
He would serve the Corps as a Veterinarian Technician and Food Service Inspector. Recognized for his administrative skill, supervisory abilities, and leadership he was recommended for the Warrant Officer Selection Program in 1973. Master Gunnery Sergeant Hedrick retired from the Corps on July 31, 1989, with over 30 years of active service.
Chuck transitioned into civilian life with the same work ethic and grit that served him so well in the military. For a decade, he worked at the San Onofre Nuclear Power Plant as a Nuclear Security Officer until his retirement in 2006. By far, his most favorite civilian job was working for the Oceanside Humane Society which fulfilled his love for dogs. In retirement, Chuck enjoyed his routines which included golf, bowling leagues, and family events. Chuck could always be relied upon for sound advice with a quick wit and a sharp sense of humor. If you've ever had the pleasure of posing for a picture with him you will recall his favorite saying, "Say horseshit".
Near and dear to his heart were his four granddaughters, and five great-grandchildren. Papa, as they called him, was a regular at birthday parties, dance recitals, and cheer competitions. He was a formidable figure and pillar of strength to his family and his presence is going to be greatly missed.
Funeral Service – Outdoor Gazebo Services will be held on December 23, 2020, at Eternal Hills, 1999 El Camino Real, Oceanside, CA 92054: 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
Reception - Following the service, an outdoor reception will be held at the home of Terence and Isabel Hedrick, 871 La Rue Ave., Fallbrook, CA 92028. We kindly ask that COVID-19 safety precautions be exercised.
Internment – A private interment will take place at Riverside National Cemetery in the New Year.
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