Editorial - November 2003

Remembering the Gabriels

Published November 28, 2003

Every so often Lincolnton sons and daughters go out into the world and make a big name for themselves. General Charles A. Gabriel, U.S. Air Force Chief of Staff under President Ronald Reagan, was one of those trail blazers. He was honored here Tuesday with the dedication of the post office in Iron Station in his name.

 That ceremony honored more than an outstanding serviceman. It honored a family of dedicated letter carriers, and particularly, Gen. Gabriel’s father, Paul Gabriel, who worked at that post office for some 44 years. Gabriel’s father, grandfather and brother-in-law also worked for the post office. So, as friends and relatives gathered for this celebration, they honored an entire family.

Gen. Gabriel, who died this past Sept. 4, spent 36 years in the Air Force. Before his appointment to the Joint Chiefs of Staff, he flew 100 combat missions in South Korea and served as commander of U.S. forces in Europe. His list of decorations and awards is extensive.

He graduated from Lincolnton High School, attended the United States Military Academy in West Point and then went to Flight Training School. He also earned a masters degree in Engineering Management from George Washington University. His sister is Lincolnton resident Betty Ross, whose name is also on a local landmark, the Betty G. Ross Park.

If he were alive today Gen. Charles Gabriel, often described as a very humble man,  would likely be very proud to see his name on the post office served for nearly half a century by his own father.

© 2001 Lincoln Times-News  

Terms and Conditions