If you mention Ricky Richardson, a 2016 graduate, to anyone in the halls of THS, the first thing you hear from everyone is "a true success story." Ricky is the first to admit that he wasn't the best student when he arrived on campus but he adapted. "I was never really school inclined," said Ricky. "I was always a hands on learner. I always wanted to do things rather than sit and learn about it." So the US Navy was the perfect fit for Ricky and he joined our military services right out of high school. "For me going to the Navy was the right move. I am an Aviation Ordnanceman. I essentially build bombs that are put on the aircrafts."
Ricky loves being in the Navy as his service has taken him to places he would have never dreamed of seeing. "I've seen 6 different countries, 4 states and 2 territories since joining the Navy. I've been stationed in Japan, San Diego, CA, Bremerton, WA, and I am going to Sicily on December 15. I’m excited about that!"
He loved his years at Trinity, including the internship program and especially the Mr. Trinity contest which he competed in twice. "I loved the environment of Trinity. I mainly kept to myself, very quiet, under the radar, sitting in the back of the class. My buddies got me through school. The teachers were always supportive, very patient and willing to help me. Mrs. Wasinski and Mrs. Straight were always helping me when I needed it with classes. They really helped me lay a foundation of how to be independent, and take care of what I needed to do to be successful in life."
This past weekend was a big one in his family as the annual Army-Navy game was played in New York. "My family had a big military background, all Army! So I am kind of the odd ball. The Army-Navy game is always an interesting time for my family. They play the game on the ships when we are out to sea, it’s a big deal." The Naval Academy upset Army 17-13 on December 11 so it was a good day for Ricky.
As for Ricky possibly being a Navy lifer. "For me it is still up in the air. After I’m done in Italy that will be 9 years in the Navy and that is kind of a halfway point for us. At that time I will figure it out but right now it looks like I will be a lifer."
Thank you Ricky for your service to our country! You are truly living out our mission of becoming a Servant Leader beyond the halls of THS.
