Charles M. Hendry
Early Life
Charles Mansur Hendry was born on January 3, 1895, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the son of Frederick M. Hendry and Rebecca Motte Mitchell. As a young child, he moved with his family to Rye, New York, where he was raised on Grandview Avenue as part of a large family with several siblings. His upbringing in Rye placed him within a community experiencing steady suburban growth while maintaining strong local identity and educational institutions.
He was educated in Rye’s public schools and graduated from Rye High School, later attending Union College in Schenectady, New York, where he studied engineering. His early training reflected both academic ambition and a technical focus that would shape his professional and military career.
World War I Service
Hendry entered military service on April 6, 1917, when he enlisted in the United States Naval Reserve Force at the outset of American involvement in the war. He trained as an electrician, advancing to Electrician Second Class, a technical rating responsible for maintaining electrical and mechanical systems essential to naval operations.
He was first assigned to Section Base No. 6, Brooklyn, part of the Navy’s coastal defense network supporting patrol and harbor protection. He was then attached to the Naval Unit at Columbia University before being assigned to Submarine Chaser No. 149, operating within the 8th Naval District based in New Orleans, Louisiana.
Submarine chasers were small, fast vessels designed to detect and engage German U-boats threatening Allied shipping. Hendry’s work as an electrician and later as Chief Machinist’s Mate involved maintaining engines, electrical systems, and onboard equipment critical to these anti-submarine operations. He advanced to Chief Machinist’s Mate and was appointed an officer in December 1918, reflecting both technical expertise and leadership.
His service was conducted primarily within United States waters, supporting coastal defense and anti-submarine patrol operations. He was honorably discharged following his appointment in December 1918.
Life After Service
Following his naval service, Hendry pursued a distinguished career as a mechanical engineer, working with major industrial firms in both the United States and abroad. He served on the engineering staff of the E. I. du Pont de Nemours Company in Charleston, West Virginia, and later became a general engineer with the Crucible Steel Company in Harrison, New Jersey. His work also included service aboard American merchant ships, reflecting both technical skill and international experience.
He remained active in professional and civic organizations, including membership in the New Jersey State Board of Professional Engineers, the Newark Athletic Club, Mamaro Lodge No. 653, Free and Accepted Masons, and the American Legion. He also maintained ties to Rye, having served as president of the Rye High School Alumni Association for several years.
Charles Mansur Hendry died on May 3, 1944, in New York after a long illness. At the time of his death, he was survived by his father, Frederick M. Hendry of Port Chester, New York.
Record Commentary: Excellent integration of technical naval role with clear explanation of submarine chaser operations, combined with strong obituary-driven professional and civic detail.
Tier Rating: A+