Richard was injured on July 8 when he was hit by a grenade while on patrol in Afghanistan. He sustained critical injuries to his legs, torso and head. His family would appreciate words of support and wishes for his recovery.
Update 8/28/08 Dad says Richard is walking with a walker and will be getting some convalescent leave before going into yet another hospital for further treatment. He has a very long recovery ahead of him and the family thanks you for reminding them they are not alone through this. The cards and letters mean a lot to them.
Update 10/2/08 info from Dad..
I am pleased to report to you that LCpl. Richard, who was injured in Afghanistan on July 8th, is making great strides in his recovery! As many of you know, he was on patrol in Southern Afghanistan when he was injured. He was hit by a grenade causing wounds to both legs, his abdomen and head area. Following 'in country' surgeries to remove shrapnel from numerous locations on his body, he was then transferred to a medical center in Germany for further treatment, then Stateside. While in the hospital he received his promotion to LCpl!
He was bought to his family's home in late August for 30-days of well deserved home recovery.
During that time he continued to progress. He even shocked his family and community when he took part in a walk-a-than to raise funds for seat belt awareness after a local teenager from his school was killed in a car accident earlier this summer. His pain was obvious, but he did not falter and finished the event.
He also was honored at a benefit dinner by 100's of supporters from his community and from around the state. The highlight of the evening was before he entered the door to the venue and saw the Marines in their Dress Blues (greeting everyone at the door) who took the time from their schedules to come stand beside their brother.
According to LCpl. Richard's father Jim, his son is walking and gaining his strength through weight training. Rehabilitation for his arms and legs continues. He has been given a battery of tests for psychological areas of his injuries where he has done very well.
LCpl. Richard returned to his base this past week for approximately three to four more months of rehabilitation and physical therapy with a possibility of returning to active duty 2009.
I spoke with Jim this afternoon and he wanted me to stress how grateful Richard and his family are to all of you and I am quoting him: "The the cards, letters of support, and message board threads of prayers and encouragement that have been sent have been just wonderful!" "We are amazed at the out-pouring of support from not only around our state, but from all over the country and the world." "Please share with them that it is truly a miracle from God that Ritchie is with us...from lying at death's door on July 8, to where he is today amazing....thank you all for what you have done and what you do."
Please continue your prayers and letters of support.
May God Bless you all! Semper Fi!
Update: July 1, 2009 It is time to take Richard off of our OperationPAL list. He has moved on to the next phase of his recovery and we not only wish him luck in his future, but will always keep him and his family in our prayers.
Update: 8/21/2009 Ritchie has been awarded the Navy Cross and meritoriously promoted to Corporal. The Navy Cross is for valor and second-only to the Medal of Honor. Congratulations Ritchie!
Update: 1/23/2010 Our volunteer recently wrote: "I forgot to give you an update on Lcpl Ritchie. He left us last fall (I can't remember which month), I just know it was hard to see him leave. Ritchie is so cute and never wanted attention brought to him. He believed that what he did, anyone would have done by putting himself between that grenade and his team leader and comrades. He was invited to the White House but declined because of that belief. It was one of many reasons why he received the Navy Cross. Lcpl Ritchie is an amazing young man and it was an honor to know him and be able to hug him. When I'd go to hug him he'd always act like he didn't want one and then I'd tell him I was going to give him kooties whether he liked it or not...it was our joke. That smile of his just melted you. He is back in his hometown and he's going to be a mechanic. Ritchie has moved on with his life and we couldn't be happier for him...we just really miss his beautiful smile and great hugs!" We all wish Lcpl Ritchie the best in life and know he has a wonderful future ahead of him. Our hearts are full of gratitude for Lcpl Ritchie and his family. Semper Fi!
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Date added to program: 7/27/2008
Date removed from program: 7/1/2009
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