Rich entered the U.S. Army in late 1977 with the goal of becoming an Army aviator. Although an early accident and multiple surgeries delayed his flight aspirations for five years, he continued to serve as a Helicopter Weapons Systems Repairer while recovering. In early 1983, Rich attended Flight School and was selected as an Attack Helicopter Pilot.

Following graduation, Rich flew and instructed in the AH-1 Cobra (all variants), quickly earning Instructor Pilot status. Three years later, he transitioned to the AH-64 Apache, where he served as an Instructor Pilot for the remainder of his military career. His service included deployment during Operation Desert Storm, where he had the unique experience of serving just two miles from his stepson, Jason, a U.S. Marine.

Rich’s duty assignments included Fort Eustis, VA; Fort Ord, CA; Schofield Barracks, HI; Fort Rucker, AL; Fort Campbell, KY; Egypt; Fort Hood, TX (multiple tours); Illesheim, Germany; and Croatia. He retired from the U.S. Army in 1998.

Following retirement, Rich continued his service as a Department of the Army civilian. He began as an instructor in the Flight Simulator Division at Fort Hood, TX, and was later promoted to Operations Officer at Robert Gray Army Airfield. He subsequently served an additional seven years as Operations Officer at Hood Army Airfield, where he oversaw major airfield reconstruction efforts. In total, Rich dedicated more than 35 years to military and civil service.

A committed community leader, Rich has served as Vice President (three years) and President (two years) of his homeowner's association in Belton, TX, and has been a member of the Executive Board of his Salado HOA for eight years. He also serves on the Executive Board of the American Legion in Florence, TX.

Rich and his wife, Gabriele, are proud parents of five grown children and grandparents to twelve grandchildren. They enjoy fast cars, motorcycles, water sports, boating, the beach, and cruising.