U.S. Navy Career Bio for Richard Smith
Born in Tuscaloosa, AL. in 1971, enlisted in the Navy Jan. of 1993 out of Montgomery, AL and attended Recruit Training Command in Great Lakes, IL. In June 1991 he reported to his first duty assignment aboard USS OHIO SSBN-726 (Gold) out of Naval Submarine Base Bangor, WA.
In March 1994 after three strategic deterrent patrols, he reported to Storekeeper “A” school for training in Meridian, MS. In June 1994, he received his orders to USS OHIO SSBN-726 (Blue) completing the first ever overhaul for a Trident submarine. In February 1995 his next assignment was a priority material expediter for the Pacific Fleet at Submarine Logistics Support Center in Bremerton, WA.
In November 1997, he reported to the highest decorated ship/submarine in the Navy the USS Parche SSN-683 where he worked with Chief of Naval Operations Special Projects in Bangor, WA. In November 2000 he transferred to Submarine Development Squadron Five Detachment Bangor another Special Projects billet where he advanced to First Class Petty Officer and became the Leading Petty Officer. In April 2003 he reported as Leading Storekeeper aboard USS Kentucky SSBN-737 (Blue) where he was selected for advancement to Chief Petty Officer.
In December 2005 he returned to Priority Material Office in Bremerton, WA to Lead in expediting operations for the Pacific and Atlantic Fleets. Also, conducting the first-ever expediting efforts for Marine Expedition Units (MEU) deployed overseas. In October 2008 he would step foot aboard his final submarine the USS Seawolf SSN-21. In March 2010 he would transfer to Submarine Development Squadron Five where he prepared for retirement which would conclude his 20-year Navy career in January 2011.
Currently, he resides with his wife Venus Smith in Everett, WA. They have two sons Brandon and Bradley who now have bright careers of their own. Since May 5th 2016, Richard has been serving as the Inventory Control Manager for Concentric LLC representing Interstate Batteries Seattle NW and All Battery Sales and Service
His personal and unit awards include:
- Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (five awards)
- Presidential Unit Commendation award
- Navy Unit Commendation award (two awards)
- Meritorious Unit award (two awards)
- Battle Efficiency Unit award (four awards)
- Good Conduct Medal (five awards)
- Navy Expeditionary Medal
- National Defense Service Medal (two awards)
- Global War on Terrorism Medal
- Sea Service ribbon
- Antarctica Service Medal
- Sharpshooter Rifle Medal
- Expert Pistol Medal.
