Charles L. Southward
Charles Lutcher Southward was a United States Army major general who served as director of the Army National Guard and commander of the District of Columbia National Guard.
Early life
Charles Lutcher Southward was born in Richmond, Virginia, on May 16, 1912. He graduated from John [Marshall High School (Richmond, Virginia)|John Marshall High School], joined the Virginia National Guard in 1930, and attained the rank of first sergeant before receiving his commission as a second lieutenant in 1935.Between 1935 and 1940 Southward advanced to captain, and he graduated from the United States Army Command and General Staff College in 1939.
World War II
During World War II Southward served on the staff of Army Forces Pacific, South West Pacific Command as a member of the Logistics section. During the war he was promoted twice, leaving active duty as a colonel (United States)|lieutenant colonel].Post World War II
After the war Southward pursued a full-time career with the federal government, serving as a Veterans’ Counselor and Business Specialist with the United States Department of Commerce in Richmond.He continued his military service, and in the 1950s was commander of the 176th Regimental Combat Team with the rank of colonel.
Southward graduated from the United States Army War College in 1954.
National Guard Bureau
In 1954 Southward was assigned to full-time duty at the National Guard Bureau, serving as head of the Policy and Liaison Office. In the early 1960s he served on the staff of the Continental Army Command.From 1964 to 1967 Southward was Chief of the Army Division,, receiving promotion to brigadier general.
Southward was appointed Commander of the District of Columbia National Guard in 1967 and promoted to major general. He served until retiring in 1974.