The last flight: Guyana bids farewell to pilot Lieutenant Colonel Michael Charles

On Wednesday a somber atmosphere hung as the nation bid farewell to a true patriot and a fearless aviator, Lieutenant Colonel Michael Charles. Known affectionately as Mike Charles, he embarked on his last flight, not as a routine mission, but as a final journey that united a grieving nation in profound sorrow.
Charles was more than a military officer; he was a symbol of unwavering dedication to his country. His final moments were tragically marked by the Bell 412 helicopter crash, leaving behind a legacy of valor and sacrifice. The news of his passing, along with four other servicemen, sent shockwaves through the hearts of Guyanese.
Lieutenant Colonel Charles, a man enamored with the natural beauty of Guyana, had a unique way of showcasing his love for the country. Through captivating videos and images, he brought to life the breathtaking landscapes that defined Guyana. His dedication to documenting the magnificence of the Essequibo region, even in the face of imminent threats to national sovereignty, reflected his commitment to duty.
President Dr Irfaan Ali, joined by dignitaries, military officials, and the grieving family, paid a moving tribute to the fallen hero. Lt. Col, whom he said was more than an ordinary Guyanese; he was a legend and a patriot who willingly laid down his life in defense of his homeland.

President Ali acknowledged Charles’ role in portraying Guyana’s beauty, ensuring that his legacy would be immortalized in the National Museum.
“He was a patriot who would lay down his life willingly in defense of Guyana. In his job, he undertook risky missions and he always acted out of a sense of duty…has fallen in the line of duty but in his falling, he continues to lift our nation,” President Ali said.
According to President Ali, Charles’ death has left a void: “Mike wasn’t just a brother. He was my dearest friend, my trusted friend. I feared nothing in the sky once Mikes Charles was there.”
As the nation mourned, memories of Charles’ illustrious career and contributions to the Guyana Defence Force were shared. From his early days in 1981 to his promotion to Lieutenant Colonel in 2021, his dedication, love for his country, and willingness to go the extra mile were evident.
The farewell ceremony unfolded with President Ali expressing a deep personal connection to Charles, remembering him not just as a brother but as a cherished friend. The final journey commenced with Charles’ remains being flown across the country, a symbolic last flight over the landscapes he loved.
“Mike wasn’t just a brother. He was my dearest friend, my trusted friend. I feared nothing in the sky once Mike Charles was there”, he said.
Air Corps Commander, Lieutenant Colonel Mohinder Ramjag shared similar sentiments saying that Mike Charles was an ‘angel’. He said that Charles was loved by all especially the indigenous children who were always fascinated with his helicopter.
“He ate, slept, and lived among those a local part of his family… his infectious smile and genuine care had the power to heal even the heaviest of hearts. Mike was a beacon of light, a true friend, and was always there to lend an ear of advice…”, he said.
The farewell ceremony started at the Nazarene church, just a stone’s throw away from Charles’ home. Prayers and reflections filled the air as his remains were honored in a solemn service. The casket was then lifted into the helicopter, and his body flew one final time across the country he loved.
He was then taken to the Promenade Gardens in Middle Street, Georgetown where another service was held and they later proceeded to the Memorial Gardens Crematorium and Funeral Home in Princess Street, Georgetown.
In the streets of Georgetown, a solemn procession unfolded, with soldiers marching in unison, family members holding hands, and citizens paid their respects. The golden arrowhead, draped around the casket, symbolized Guyana’s gratitude for his service and sacrifice.
Tears flowed as his wife, Ann Fernandes, collected the emblem, marking the emotional reality of their loss.
At the memorial site, wreaths were laid, and Mike Charles’ remains were taken to the crematorium building for a private funeral and cremation.
Of the seven servicemen, who went missing when the helicopter crashed in Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni) on December 6, only two men survived.
Lieutenant Andio Crawford and Corporal Dwayne Jackson were extracted from the crash site on December 8, after two days and multiple thwarted attempts by the search and rescue team to rescue them.
In the presence of President Irfaan Ali and other senior officials at the Eugene F Correia International Airport on Friday, the caskets carrying Brigadier (Ret’d) Gary Beaton, Colonel Michael Shahoud, Lieutenant Colonel Sean Welcome, Lieutenant Colonel Michael Charles, and Staff Sergeant Jason Khan, were taken from a GDF Skyvan by their comrades and transported to awaiting hearses.
Brigadier Beaton was the project engineer; Colonel Shahoud, an attorney-at-law, was Commander of the 1st Infantry Battalion; Lt Col Charles was the pilot; Lieutenant Colonel Welcome was Commanding Officer of the Reserve Battalion; and Staff Sergeant Khan was from the 31 Special Forces Squadron.
At about 11:20h on Wednesday, an Emergency Locator Transmitter (ELT) signal was received, but because of rough terrain and adverse weather, the search and rescue team was only able to reach the site on Thursday at about 14:30h. (G9)