Richard Bingham, a former First Sergeant in the United States Army and Army Reserve, has a long history of military service. His journey began on April 23, 1968, when he was drafted into the Army and deployed to Vietnam as a Motorpool Sergeant with the 1st Aviation Brigade. He returned from Vietnam in December 1969 and completed his military obligation in 1974.
In 1977, Bingham joined the 414th Civil Affairs Company in Utica, New York, marking the start of his career in the Army Reserve. His service continued when he moved to California and joined the 426th Civil Affairs Company in Upland as a Military Police Supervisor (MOS 95B5M). Returning to New York, he served seven years as a Basic Training First Sergeant with the 1165th Training Unit.
Throughout nearly four decades of service, Bingham earned numerous commendations including the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, and Humanitarian Service Medal.
In 2007, Bingham retired with an Honorable Discharge as a First Sergeant. Reflecting on his service he said it was “more than duty – it was an honor.” He expressed pride in having served alongside courageous individuals and continues to inspire those who know him through his legacy of service.
