COL Richard J. Allen, began his military career early in life as a cadet student at the famed Georgia Military Academy in 1932, from which he received his high school diploma in 1938. Entering Emory University that same fall, the mounting tension in Europe interrupted his education and prompted his enlistment in the Army.

After serving three years as an enlisted man, during which time he became a company first sergeant, he attended the Army's Officer Candidate School, graduating early in 1942, after which he was assigned to the 501st.

During his wartime service with the famed Geronimos, COL Allen served alternately as a company commander, regimental S-3 Officer, a battalion commander, and regimental executive officer.

This distinguished and highly decorated combat veteran numbered among his numerous decorations the Silver Star, Bronze Star, Combat Infantry Badge, Croix de Guerre with Gold Star (France), and many other awards.

Continuing his education after the war, the Colonel received a Bachelor of Science Degree from the University of Maryland, and, in addition to his civilian education, was a graduate of the Army Command and General Staff College, the Armed Forces Staff College, and the Air War College.

Serving in various important assignments since World War II, his last assignment prior to taking command of the 506th in March of 1963 was as Chief, Atlantic-Western Hemisphere Division, J-5, U. S. Strike Command.