Charles “Buddy” Freeman II lived a life of selfless service, serving as a corporal for the United States Marine Corps and later as a lieutenant for the Montgomery Fire Department. As a Marine, Buddy proved his tenacity and dedication to his country over his six years of service. While on active duty, beginning in 2003, he was deployed to Cuba, Japan, and twice to Iraq to protect our freedoms, which he did with the utmost pride. He was awarded multiple medals.

While there is no such thing as a former Marine, he did transition away from the military and into the fire service. His decision was greatly influenced by his father, Butch Hayes, a retired 28-year career Houston firefighter. Buddy began his career at Montgomery Fire Department in October of 2010.

Buddy was a quick study, and his leadership skills did not go unnoticed. He was promoted to the rank of lieutenant in 2013. During his years as an officer for MFD, Buddy trained and mentored countless young firefighters. He could be described as a firefighter’s officer. He always looked out for his guys and was not afraid to speak his mind. Buddy was the definition of a strong-willed individual. The actions he took throughout his life and the courageous sacrifices he made contributed to countless lives saved. His impact and legacy will forever be remembered.

Buddy loved his career and the guys at the station, but what he loved most was his family. Buddy and his wife, April, were high school sweethearts and soulmates who met at the young age of 16 and were married in 2005. They went on to have two beautiful children, Payton and Porter. Life with Buddy was always an adventure. He cherished time with his family, because that was most important to him, and they spent time traveling and camping. He had the biggest heart, loved life, and lived it to the fullest.

Buddy was an incredible man, son, brother, husband, and father. His courage and strength were unmatched and will not be forgotten. His mother, Sandy Hayes, is the foundation of his strong attributes. She taught him so much about loving your family big and spending quality time with them. His brother, Cody Howard, was his partner in life; no matter the time or distance, they always picked up where they left off. They enjoyed many of the same hobbies and many family vacations.

The loss of Buddy has left a devastating hole in the hearts of those who loved him. He is missed beyond what words can describe. We honor him by living life as he did, to the fullest, because “the road goes on forever, and the party never ends.”