Captain Charles Nels Tanner (1932-2015)

CharlesNTannerI had the honor this week of officiating the funeral of a great patriot and great saint: Nels Tanner.  His greatness as a patriot is attested to by his distinguished service record and numerous decorations, including: two Silver Stars, two Legions of Merit, the Distinguished Flying Cross, two Purple Hearts, the Bronze Star, nine air medals and two Distinguished Service Medals. 

Greatness among followers of Jesus is shown in humility, and Nels’ humility was evident to anyone who knew him.  At his request, the funeral was a simple service at  Mt CarmelRear Admiral Robert Shumaker delivered a fitting eulogy, but other than the flag draped on his casket, there was no indication of his heroic service.  In pre-arrangements Nels wrote:

Even though I rate a full military service … I respectfully decline. I mean no disrespect to those who have honorably served their country in time of need. I simply want to emphasize by means of this service, that the witness of this sinner, having asked for and received forgiveness for his sins by his faith in Jesus Christ our Lord, is far more important than any other statement he or his community could possibly make.

2 thoughts on “Captain Charles Nels Tanner (1932-2015)

  1. TO YOU CAPTAIN TANNER ON VETERANS DAY. YOU ARE THE VET I MOST REMEMBER. I COU;D NEVER THANK YOU FOR WHAT YOU MEAN TO ME. I ONLY MET YOU 3 OR 4 TIMES MAYBE MORE BUT WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER YOU.GOD BLESS YOUR WONDERFUL FAMILY. GARY THIBADO

  2. Nels Tanner came up in a discussion with a retired FedEx executive who “took care of Nels Tanner” after his retirement. His comments on being saved resonate with me and I am blessed by those words. See you in the air one day my brother.

    Pastor Doug Stauffer, Faith Independent Baptist Church, Niceville, Florida

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