Biography of Charles Wilson
Former U.S. Rep. Charlie Wilson, a native of Trinity, Texas, served as congressman for the Texas 2nd district from 1973-1996. A former U.S. Navy lieutenant, Wilson also served in the Texas House of Representatives (1960-66) and the Texas Senate (1966-72).
Wilson is perhaps best known for his congressional work as a powerful member of the Defense Appropriations Committee. Beginning in 1980, with the help of the Central Intelligence Agency, he helped to funnel billions of dollars in U.S. aid to Afghanistan’s mujahideen fighters during the Soviet-Afghan war. Many believe this effort led to the defeat of the Red Army and, ultimately, the fall of the Soviet Union. Wilson’s exploits were chronicled in the 2003 best-selling book Charlie Wilson’s War, by George Crile. The book has been turned into a movie starring Tom Hanks and Julia Roberts, due this Christmas from Universal Pictures.
Now a lobbyist, Wilson lives in Lufkin with his wife Barbara.