Westhampton Beach resident Steven Richard retires from the New York Air National Guard after 41 years of service
F. S. GABRESKI AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, WESTHAMPTON BEACH, N.Y. (03/18/2025) — New York Air National Guard Master Sgt. Steven Richard, a Newburyport, Massachusetts native and Westhampton Beach resident, ended a 41-year military career with a retirement ceremony on March 9 at Francis S. Gabreski Air National Guard Base.
Richard enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1984 as a fuels apprentice. His initial assignment at Loring Air Force Base, Maine, involved inventorying the numerous hydrant and bulk storage fuel tanks.
After leaving active duty, Richard transferred to the New Hampshire Air National Guard, 157th Air Refueling Wing, in December 1986, where he served as a fuels specialist in the 157th Supply Squadron. In April 2002, he transferred to the Massachusetts Air National Guard, 102nd Fighter Wing, where he was promoted to Fuels Operations Supervisor.
Richard transferred to the New York Air National Guard, 106th Rescue Wing, in January 2009, and last served as the 106th Logistics Readiness Squadron's (LRS) Fuels Superintendent. In this role, Richard supervised and mentored 16 fuels management personnel and verified that they were on the forefront of operational readiness and effectiveness. He also ensured that programs and visual aides were current and up to date with the most updated information available.
The presiding official of the ceremony, Captain Patrick White, the 106th Installation Deployment Officer, praised Richard for his service and leadership over the years.
"It is my distinct honor to say thank you, Master Sgt. Richard, for 41 years of service, years of mentorship, 41 years, which is half your life you have given to us. Your Meritorious Service Medal with 12 oak leaf clusters and Air and Space Longevity Service Award with over 10 oak leaf clusters is an LRS record."
In his remarks, Richard thanked the wing leadership, distinguished guests, his family and friends, and the Airmen he leads for their support throughout the years.
"Thank you all so very much for your guidance, mentorships, partnerships, and friendships over the years. To the entire flight, both past and present, thank you for believing in one another, for supporting each other, and for your endless drive and motivation."
During the ceremony, Richard was presented with the Meritorious Service Medal for Outstanding Service, the Air Force Certificate of Retirement, and the Presidential Certificate of Appreciation.
In civilian life, Richard is a certified chef and will be working full-time for the Hilton Garden Inn and the Westhampton Beach Country Club.
In closing, Richard said, "To our amazing Airmen who are aspiring to be our future NCOs (Non-Commissioned Officers) and leaders. Inspire change! Be proud of yourselves and what you do, for everything you do matters."
The 106th Rescue Wing, based at Francis S. Gabreski Air National Guard Base in Westhampton Beach, New York, operates and maintains the HC-130J Combat King II search and rescue aircraft, and the HH-60W Jolly Green II search and rescue helicopter. The 106th Rescue Wing is home to a special warfare squadron with pararescuemen and combat rescue officers, specializing in rescue and recovery, and deploys for domestic and overseas operations.
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NY Air National Guard Captain Patrick White, left,106th Rescue Wing Installation Deployment Officer, presents Master Sgt. Steven Richard, 106th Rescue Wing Logistics Readiness Squadron Fuels Operations Supervisor, with the Certificate of Retirement during Richard’s retirement ceremony held at Francis S. Gabreski Air National Guard Base, Westhampton Beach, N.Y., March 9, 2025. Richard joined the 106th in 2009 where he served 16 of his 41 years of service. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Sarah McKernan)