He engaged in great debates with his older sister which were often settled with an encyclopedia. His classroom label was changed from slow to bored when he recieved a score of 160 on the current I.Q. test.
The oldest son was a responsibility to be taken seriously in his mind and he made time to listen to his 2 brothers and 3 sisters whenever they would come to him for counsel. Anyone picking on one of Charles sibling knew they had him to recon with as well, Scott and Brian at the flank. (and Mom thought they were such peaceful children!)
Very closed about himself, it was a trick into a trap that forced him to confess he had signed up for the Navy. His reasons for that choice are still his own, but there is speculation that it may have had something to do with his sister serving in that military branch.
Needing someone to bounce an idea off of, the boys usually would go to Charles. Which brings us to tress. Charles not only encouraged Scott but likes the idea so well he partnered with him, made it his own dream and is working to see it come true.