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Charles "Chuck"
Monges : Founder of the Legion of Valor Museum  "Chuck"
Monges was born May 7, 1922, in Los Angeles, California. He graduated
from Sierra High School, Fresno County in 1940, and joined the Marine
Corps. Boot camp was in San Diego, California. After training, he
was posted to British Samoa as part of the Samoa defense force. He
held various assignments until June 15, 1944, when he participated
in the first wave landing on Red Beach II in Saipan. As a result of
that action, he was awarded the Navy Cross and the Purple Heart. In
1948, he joined the United States Army and in 1949, was appointed
a 2d Lieutenant and assigned to the 2d Armored Division. He requested
separation from extended active duty and was assigned to the National
Guard. He served in that capacity until he was recalled to active
duty in 1952. He graduated Airborne School and was posted at Fort
Ord, California as a Company Commander. In December 1952, he was assigned
to the 40th Division in Korea and received a combat promotion to Captain.
While in Korea, Chuck received the Soldier's Medal, Bronze Star, and
two commendation ribbons with metal pendants. He served in various
capacities being promoted to Major in 1961. Chuck Monges retired from
active service May 31, 1963. In 1991 he proposed the development of
a Legion of Valor Museum making correct an oversight lasting over
100 years. With the help of his wife Anita, and the assistance of
past National Commander Albert Deshayes, DSC and his wife Harriett,
Chuck opened the museum in the Fresno Veterans Memorial Auditorium.
The building was cleaned up and space allocated for sister veterans
organizations. Today's Legion of Valor Museum occupies the majority
of the building. The Legion of Valor and all veterans thank Chuck
Monges for his foresight and leadership. Major (Ret.) Charles J. Monges,
NC served the Legion of Valor as National Commander in 1993-1994.
He remained Museum Director until his death July 24, 2001.
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Copyright 2008© Legion of Valor
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