*Charles participates in a combat load for M1A2 Abrams stationed in Northern Iraq in 2007.*

Charles Jordan embodies the all-American spirit. Serving as the Constituent Services Representative for Congressman John Ratcliffe, he works for the Fourth District of TexasassistingcitizensfromthenortheastcornerofthestatefromhisofficeatTexarkana College. A native of San Diego, California, Charles has lived in the Texarkana area for 17 years. After the 9-11 attacks, he voluntarily enlisted in the Army and served in Iraq from 2006-2008. Here he worked as a chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear technician. His expertise was specifically dealing with hazardous materials and combat logistics. He also was part of the Hurricane Katrina task force in 2005 and utilized his various skills. Returning from his tour, Charles became involved with Wounded Warriors and began to work for the Department of Defense. He holds both a BAAS and MS degree from Texas A&M University-Texarkana and is currently pursuing his doctorate which focuses on the practical applications of business principles.

Charles’ work with the Defense Department was a perfect stepping stone to enter the U.S. House of Representatives and served first as a two-year fellow in Congressman Ratcliffe’s office. Serving in his current position for the past three years has been a perfect fit for Charles as he truly loves serving and helping others. “The federal government is desperate for someone to communicate at a federal and local level,” he says, adding that he has “a remarkable opportunity to break down some barriers.” Many constituents across the district have unmet needs and don’t know where to go for help. Charles is that bridge for such citizens and feels blessed with the opportunity to provide an answer in conjunction with the Congressman and other staff members.

Charles’ office receives daily phone calls and walk-in visitors, and in addition to their Texarkana office, there are three mobile offices located in Linden, Sulphur Springs and Paris, Texas. The Fourth District encompasses 12 counties and 360,000 residents. The Congressman’s office also is responsible for recommending local high school seniors to various military institutions as well as providing internship opportunities both locally and in Washington, D.C. Charles reports that this year they had 30 area students who were offered acceptance to military academies.

*Charles stands in front of the The Great Ziggurat of Ur in 2006.*

A self-proclaimed family man, Charles is happily married to his wife, Ericca, and they have two grown children and two children aged 3 and 4. Ericca is a former child advocacy coordinator and also serves as a consultant for infant and family services. The parallel between both of their careers allows the couple to work together for the community. They are very active in their congregation at City Church and donate many volunteer hours to help serve others. Charles is a proud member of various veteran organizations such as the Texarkana Area Veterans Council and has served as chaplain for Disabled American Veterans. He is passionate about helping fellow veterans in the various health realms. He says, “The local VA Outpatient Clinic provides rehabilitative and social work for area veterans with social workers having 20-plus years of experience.” He feels like the Texarkana area is overall well served with adequate needs being efficiently met but there is always room for improvement. Charles also helps local veterans with job placement via the Workforce Commission, as well as helping them take advantage of the excellent educational opportunities available at Texarkana College and Texas A&M University-Texarkana.

*A recent graduate of Leadership Texarkana, Charles enjoyed taking part in the program and helping make our community better.*

Throughout the community, Charles Jordan is a positive force, always eager to jump in and help wherever needed. He is a recent graduate of Leadership Texarkana and found the experience to be an incredible one. He enjoyed meeting fellow citizens from various professions and found working together for our community a rewarding opportunity. When asked what he is passionate about, he answers that he wants all people in need to find appropriate help. In response to his goals, he simply smiles and replies, “I want to be the best husband and father I can be.”

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Embodying the American Spirit