Tank McNamara had the opportunity to visit with Richard A. Deschene at the World War II Memorial on day 2 of the Veterans Honor Flight.

Richard A. Deschene
US Army
CPL

Argyle, Minnesota is where I come from and where I’m proud to still call home. I was drafted by the Army and began my service in January 1952. After graduating from basic training in Fort Jackson, South Carolina, I spent time with the 65th AMD in Korea. I worked as a light duty mechanic on Jeeps and 2.5-ton trucks, was a Jeep driver and became a supply clerk in the motor pool. Receiving Korean Service Medal with three Bronze Stars, National Defense Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, United Nations Service Medal, and a Meritorious Unit Commendation were all very proud moments for me. My time in the military came to an end in December 1953.

After the Army I farmed in the spring, summer, and fall. During the winter months, I worked for American Crystal Sugar.

My lovely wife, Lorraine, and I got married in 1951. We raised five children who gave us our promotion to grandparents four times. We are also great-grandparents to many. I come from a very militarily-involved family … six of my brothers and I all served as young men.

I am a member of the Argyle American Legion.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.