In 1972 aboard Apollo 16, Charlie Duke became the tenth of twelve men to walk on the moon. Over the years, his enthusiasm and humor have not only entertained, but also inspired others to reach their goals.
Born in Charlotte, NC in 1935, Duke received a Bachelor of Science degree in Naval Sciences from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1957. He attended the U.S. Naval Academy in 1957 and earned a Master of Science degree in Aeronautics from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in 1964.
Following his graduation from the U.S. Naval Academy, Duke was commissioned into the U.S. Air Force. Upon his retirement, Duke held the rank of Air Force Reserve Brigadier General and had logged 4,147 hours of flying time, which included 3,632 hours in jet aircraft
As one of the 19 astronauts selected by NASA in April 1966, Duke served as lunar module pilot of Apollo 16 from April 16-27 in 1972. Apollo 16 was the first scientific expedition to inspect, survey, and sample materials and surface features in the Descartes region of the rugged lunar highlands. With the completion of his first space flight, Duke logged 265 hours in space and over 21 hours of extra vehicular activity.
His special honors include the NASA Distinguished Service Medical, and the Air Force Distinguished Service Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster. In addition, he was presented the Boy Scouts of America Distinguished Eagle Scout Award in 1975.
Since retirement from NASA in 1975, he has been
very active in business. Presently he is owner of Charlie Duke Enterprises,
President of Duke Investments, and President of Duke Ministry For Christ.