U.S. Navy Veteran
Service Before Politics. Duty. Integrity. Fairness.
Charles E. Pell served as a United States Navy Officer before becoming a federal prosecutor, and continued in the Reserves. His Navy service included intelligence and investigative work, reflecting the same commitment to duty, discipline, and public service that later guided his 20 years as a federal criminal prosecutor serving Orange County.
Charles’s service in the U.S. Navy is part of a broader life of public service — as a Navy veteran, former federal prosecutor, former public-school teacher, and candidate for Orange County Superior Court Judge, Office No. 41.
A Family Tradition of Military Service
Charles E. Pell comes from a family tradition of military service, which can be traced to the Revolutionary War. In more recent generations, his grandfather, Charles Herbert Pell, served in the United States Navy during World War II. His father, Cleve A. Pell, served in the Navy during the Vietnam War era. Charles continued that legacy through his own service as a U.S. Navy Commissioned Officer.
Three generations of the Pell family proudly and honorably served in the United States Navy.
Charles E. Pell during his U.S. Navy service.
Charles's former NCIS business card, with contact info redacted, from his prior Navy service.
NCIS Certificate - Overseas Operations Course
Honor. Courage. Commitment.
