Rob Richards, a Marine Scout Sniper, had deployed 3 times to Afghanistan, suffering severe physical wounds from IED explosions in his 2nd and 3rd deployments. He was medically retired last year at 100% disability. His physical wound, and PTSD and TBI were extensive, and he came close to taking his own life as he struggled to adjust to the transition to the civilian world. His Marine Brothers and family joined forces to make sure he was not one of the “22”; and succeeded. As Rob’s resolve to live grew stronger, we watched him take on the call to help his troubled brothers also come back off the edge. Tragically, On August 13, 2014, though Rob did not succumb to suicide, PTSD and his other wounds claimed his life. An adverse reaction to a change in medications used to treat PTSD and pain caused him to collapse and die unexpectedly. Hundreds came to his memorial, with stories of his heroism on the battlefield, and back at home in helping his brothers. Rob’s last communication, a text, right before he collapsed, was to a friend who was organizing a Veterans Motorcycle Run in support of #22Kill. He was saying how much he was looking forward to helping them on their upcoming fund raiser. Rob’s family has picked up actively supporting his cause.
During his military career, he was awarded the Purple Heart, Combat Action Ribbon, Presidential Unit Citation, Navy Unit Commendation, two Marine Corps Good Conduct Medals, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with four stars, as well as numerous other unit and personal awards.
He is described by his fellow Marines as a selfless leader, a dedicated Marine, and a faithful friend.
He was a native of St. Petersburg.
