In partnership with the Veterans Coordination Commission, we are pleased to present the June 2007 Veteran of the Month Recognition to Richard (Dick) Stradinger.

Dick grew up in Dickinson, North Dakota and entered the United States Air Force in 1954 after serving with the National Guard. Dick was stationed at Kessler Air Force Base, Mississippi, where he attended a year long electronics program. After being stationed at several state side bases, he was discharged in 1959. Upon rejoining the Air Force, Dick was assigned to the Missile Maintenance field and stationed at Cape Canaveral. He later transferred to Grand Forks AAFB and a new career in Air Borne Missile Maintenance. For the next nine years, Dick was stationed at five different bases in the United States.

Dick was promoted to First Sergeant for the Iranian Air Force technicians at Chanute, AFB in 1971. He arrived at Ellsworth AFB in 1973, assigned to the 28th Headquarters Squadron First Sergeant. He retired from the Air Force in 1975 as a Master Sergeant.

Dick’s awards and decorations include: Air Force Commendation Medal w/1Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster, Air Force Outstanding Unit Award, Air Force Good Conduct Medal w/1 Silver OLC, National Defense Service Medal w/Bronze Service Star, Air Force Longevity Service Award Ribbon w/4 Bronze OLC, Air Force NCO Professional Military Education Graduate Ribbon, and Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon.

Dick has been a business entrepreneur, owning and operating two businesses in Rapid City. While working for MPI, he developed an inventory program, owned and operated a starter rebuilding business and retired in 1996. Dick has been married to his childhood sweetheart, Jeannette, for over 50 years. They have four daughters, nine grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren residing all over the United States. Dick is a Life Member of TREA Chapter 29, held several offices including President, 2nd Vice President, 3 year Director and Sergeant-at-Arms and currently serves as Treasurer. He is actively involved as Committee Chairman for Finance and the Monday night bingo as well as serving on the Chapter Honor Guard.