Charles Strange

Gold Star Father • Founder, Michael Strange Foundation • Author of Relentless

Charles Strange is the proud father of Petty Officer First Class Michael Strange, a Navy cryptologist with SEAL Team 6 who was killed in action during the downing of Extortion 17 in Afghanistan on August 6, 2011 — the deadliest single incident in the war.

Following the devastating loss of his son, Charles became a relentless advocate for Gold Star families, truth, and accountability. He founded the Michael Strange Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting families of fallen military heroes through grief counseling retreats, peer support, and healing workshops. The foundation provides a space where Gold Star parents, siblings, and spouses can come together, share their stories, and find strength in community.

Charles is also the author of the book Relentless, a deeply personal account of his fight for answers and justice. His decade-plus-long pursuit is now the subject of a powerful new documentary, set to be released later this year on major streaming platforms including Apple TV and Prime Video.

Through his foundation, writing, and public work, Charles continues to honor Michael’s legacy by empowering others to turn grief into purpose, and by fighting for the transparency and recognition our fallen heroes and their families deserve.

Charles will join us at TODOS K9 2025 for a special appearance and tribute — reminding us all of the human stories behind service, sacrifice, and the dogs who stand beside our warriors.