Sgt. Joseph A. Richardson was born Sept. 10, 1989, in Algona, Iowa. He graduated from Booneville High School in Arkansas in May 2008. He enlisted in the U.S. Army on June 10, 2008. His military service includes: Basic training and the Advanced Individual Training course, One Stop Unit Training, Fort Benning Ga. He was assigned to the 1st Bn., 28th Inf. Regt. Oct. 30, 2008. He started as a Squad Automatic Weapon gunner, grenadier, ammunition handler and an automatic rifleman. He first served 10 months in Iraq, from 2009 to 2010. He deployed on his second tour of duty to Afghanistan in May 2012.
“There are many words to describe him, but the best would have to be fearless. He wasn’t afraid of anything or anyone, said Spc. Jeremiah Niznik, a friend of Richardson’s.” He made the ultimate sacrifice for his country and for all of us; he wasn’t just my best friend, he was my brother. Rest in peace Joey.”
Richardson’s awards include the Bronze Star, Purple Heart, Army Commendation Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, NATO Medal, the Army Service Ribbon and the Overseas Service Ribbon. He also earned the Combat Infantryman’s Badge and the Driver and Mechanics Badge.
Richardson is survived by his wife, Ashley Richardson; his mother and father, Ginette and Greg Richardson; his stepmother, Teresa J. Richardson; one brother, Nick Eden; and two sisters, Cassie M. Richardson and Abby E. Richardson.
No comments yet.