Retired NYPD Inspector Charles Wells, hailed as an “American hero,” has died at 79. During a distinguished career, Wells disarmed more than 100 bombs and received the NYPD’s Medal of Valor.
Wells served nearly four decades with the New York Police Department and led the NYPD/FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force in the aftermath of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. He died last week and was buried Tuesday in his native Staten Island.
“I was blessed to be married to such a strong and loving husband, father and grandfather,” his widow, Lois Wells, said. At his funeral, she was presented with the NYPD flag and the American flag.
“He dedicated his life to his family, loved the NYPD and loved his country,” she said.
Several hundred mourners gathered at Our Lady of Good Counsel Church to honor Wells, a decorated US Marine Corps veteran and widely respected member of New York’s Finest.
“They don’t make them like him anymore – I don’t know what I am going to do,” Lois said through tears as her husband’s casket was carried to the hearse.
“He would’ve loved all the pageantry,” she added with a bittersweet smile, referring to the NYPD helicopter flyover, color guard, pipe and drum band, bomb truck and explosive-detection dogs, along with US Marine flag bearers who took part in the service.
Wells was awarded the Purple Heart in 1967 after being wounded in Vietnam.
He later joined the NYPD and served on the force for 37 years, including 13 years with the Bomb Squad.
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Following the 9/11 attacks, Wells was appointed to lead the NYPD/FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force.
He earned the Medal of Honor, the NYPD’s highest distinction, as well as the Medal of Valor for disarming bombs at police headquarters and the United Nations. Over the course of his career, he personally deactivated more than 100 bombs and helped save countless lives.
“Inspector Charles Wells was an NYPD legend and before that he was an American hero,” said recently retired Bomb Squad Sgt. Brian Coughlan. “He inspired hundreds of detectives.”
Wells’ grandson Andrew recalled those acts of courage while delivering his grandfather’s eulogy.
He also remembered Wells as a devoted grandfather who picked up his grandchildren from school and attended all of their sporting events.
Wells remained a lifelong supporter of the New York Knicks and Yankees, though over time his attention shifted from the teams to cheering for his children and grandchildren.
His smiles on Staten Island’s ballfields were far bigger than any grin he had shown at Madison Square Garden or in the Bronx.
Wells is survived by his three daughters, Kathy, Suzie and Jenny, their husbands, and five grandchildren: Andy, Ava, Michael, Kali and Ashley.
