Richard Loza
About Me
Richard served with the 3rd Ranger Battalion from August 2001- August 2005. In addition to earning a BS degree in Psychology and working with the Department of Homeland Security, during the 12 years since transitioning back to civilian life, Richard has worked as a licensed insurance agent, armed security guard and construction worker.
“I was honorably discharged after 4 years of service. I went into the Army as a 17-year-old clueless teen and came out as a husband and father to 3-year-old Jendy, (now 15). I was in the delayed entry program my senior year in high school. I remember my mother being worried about signing the release papers in 2000 but I convinced her we are in peacetime and if a war did happen to break out, the Airforce will bomb them and it will be over in two weeks. Never did I imagine that two weeks after enlisting into the Army we would come under attack. I was in-processing at 30th AG when 9/11 happened. At that time I was still thinking OEF would be over in a few weeks. Fast forward to June 2002 and I’m on my first of four deployments with the 3rd Ranger Battalion. My second deployment was jumping into Objective Roadrunner in Iraq and securing the Haditha Dam.
On April 8, 2015, I was crushed by a forklift. I woke up two days later in the Intensive Care Unit with a shattered femur, punctured a hole in my lower back, and nearly ripped off my left arm. The day after being released from ICU and into regular care at the hospital I began documenting my recovery with the goal to inspire people to stop feeling sorry for themselves and keep pushing when life happens. I joined the Sua Sponte Elite Race team and two days ago I completed a 10.5 obstacle course in under 3 hours. I work out every day and don’t let my injuries keep me from being the physically active guy I have always been. Consistency, dedication, and hard work will lead you to your goals. I took inspiration from Cory Remsburg and hope that with my story I will inspire others.”
