Richard Fierro was born on March 1, 1949, and raised in San Diego’s Logan Heights community near 33rd Street, known as “The Valley.” Growing up in this close-knit neighborhood instilled the values of loyalty, perseverance, and service that would guide his life.

Military service was deeply rooted in the Fierro and Diosdado families. During World War II, Leonard Fierro served with the 104th Infantry Division and Alfredo Diosdado with the 90th Infantry Division, both earning Purple Hearts. Carlos Asin Cardenas served with the 3rd Infantry Division, earning two Silver Stars for gallantry. Their sacrifices established a proud military legacy that Richard would carry forward.

On June 24, 1969, at age 20, Richard was drafted into the United States Army. Following training at Fort Ord, California, and Fort Sill, Oklahoma, he deployed to Vietnam in November 1969 with the 1st Battalion, 82nd Artillery, 23rd Infantry Division (Americal Division).

Serving as an Assistant Gunner on a 155mm Air Mobile Howitzer, Richard provided artillery support to infantry operations throughout the I Corps Tactical Zone. His combat service included the Vietnam Winter-Spring Campaign, Sanctuary Counteroffensive, and Vietnam Counteroffensive Phase VII. Operating near the Cambodian border, he experienced enemy fire, landmine threats, and the hardships of combat.

For his honorable service, Richard earned the Army Commendation Medal with Oak Leaf Clusters, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, and Sharpshooter Marksmanship Qualification Badges for the M-14 and M-16 rifles. He was honorably released from active duty on December 28, 1970, as a Specialist Four.

In 1971, Richard joined Carpenters Union Local 1296, beginning a distinguished career spanning decades. After becoming a Journeyman Carpenter, he helped construct bridges, high-rises, and major projects throughout San Diego County. He later served sixteen years as a Union Representative, advocating for workers and their families before retiring in 2007.

In 1976, Richard married Frances Burrola of El Centro, California. Together, they raised two sons, Richard Jr. and Edward, both United States Army veterans. Richard credits Frances and their family with providing the love and support behind his accomplishments.

Today, Richard’s legacy represents generations of military service, extending from World War II through Vietnam to Iraq and Afghanistan. His family’s commitment to duty reflects more than eighty years of sacrifice and patriotism.

From the streets of Logan Heights to the battlefields of Vietnam, Richard Fierro’s life embodies perseverance, family, brotherhood, and service. His contributions as a Soldier, union leader, husband, and father continue to inspire future generations while honoring the proud military heritage of the Fierro and Diosdado families.