Richard was born and raised in Charlotte, NC.  While in high school, he met Melanie who would later become his wife.  Richard joined the United States Marine Corps straight out of high school.  After over four years of service, which included combat in Iraq, numerous awards, and two meritorious promotions, he moved on to the next phase of his life.  He started at the local community college directly out of the service.  He maintained a high GPA which led to his acceptance at the esteemed UNC – Chapel Hill. 

     Throughout all of these changes, Richard maintained and grew in three areas of his life: his relationship with God through Jesus; his mutual, loving relationship with his wife; and his pursuit of excellence in triathlon.