Richard Halicek was born in Leetsdale, Pennsylvania and attended Leetsdale High School until moving to Ambridge, Pennsylvania. He graduated from Ambridge High School in 1947. After graduation, Halicek began studying in the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Apprenticeship Program. He enlisted in the Army in 1951.
During his service, Halicek deployed to Korea, where he served for two years as corporal in the 35th Infantry Regiment with the 25th Infantry Division. The regiment offered different roles during the Korean War including serving in front-line combats, patrolling and defending the main line of resistance, and conducting ambush operations. Though Halicek never saw any combat, he contributed to the missions of the regiment in many other ways.
In 1952, Halicek left the Army and returned home to Pennsylvania, where he completed his electrical apprenticeship with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local Union 712. Halicek worked as a journeyman wireman until his retirement in 1992. He has been a member of his Local Union 712 for 73 years. After his service, Halicek also obtained a private pilot license and is an avid flyer.
Halicek currently resides in Ambridge, Pennsylvania. He celebrates his 90th birthday today.
Thank you for your service!
Nominate a Veteran for #VeteranOfTheDay
Do you want to light up the face of a special Veteran? Have you been wondering how to tell your Veteran they are special to you? VA’s #VeteranOfTheDay social media feature is an opportunity to highlight your Veteran and his/her service.
It’s easy to nominate a Veteran. Visit our blog post about nominating to learn how to create the best submission.
Contributors
Writer:
Editor: Ryan Pan
Fact checker: Hannah Bundschuh
Graphic artist: Danielle Kleppe
Topics in this story
More Stories
This week’s Honoring Veterans Spotlight honors the service of Coast Guard Veteran Alan Spielman, who served in Alaska.
This week’s Honoring Veterans Spotlight honors the service of Air Force Veteran Jan Klebukowski, who served in the United States, United Kingdom and South Korea.
This week’s Honoring Veterans Spotlight honors the service of Navy Veteran James McDonald, who served as a Chief Metalsmith during his service.
Thank you for your service Richard Halicek.