Charles S. Lannom, O.D was born and raised in Grinnell, Iowa. Graduated in 1971 from Cornell College with a degree in physics and math. Joined the U.S. Navy and became a Naval Aviator in 1973 accumulating some 1000 hours and 300 carrier landings flying the A-7 aircraft. Following naval service attended and graduated cum laude from Southern California College of Optometry in 1981. Published an award-winning research paper concerning oxygen flow in contact lenses and opened Family Eye Clinic in 1981 with special interests in contact lenses and binocular vision. He married Susan, who is an optometrist now retired, and together have three daughters. Dr. Lannom retired in 2021 ending his 40-year career in optometry.