Maine Army National Guard Sgt. Richard K Parker was born on December 9, 1980. He was KIA in Iraq on June 14, 2007 during his second tour overseas.
In the military is where Richard found his place in the world. He found his purpose in life there with his brothers in arms. He was a young man who enjoyed adventuring in the great outdoors, including fishing trips with his friends. He loved animals and had much compassion for them. He also loved adventuring into the books he read. His favorite books to read were fantasy novels. He could read through a book faster than the biggest book enthusiast. As an adult, he still loved to watch cartoons. He was playful and always loved getting under people’s skin, including his sisters, just for the fun of it. He collected dragons, wizards, coins, stamps, and rocks. He had a son, Keegan, who was born while he was in Iraq on his second tour. Unfortunately, the two never got to meet, but Keegan has many of Richard’s mannerisms. Richard lives on in him.
Richard’s stone was found by his sister in a small brook next to the house where they all grew up and played as kids.
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Honoring my brother by carrying his stone on the hike to rainbow loop with TSP was an emotional, but uplifting experience. Richard loved the outdoors, often exploring and sometimes finding himself lost in the forest. He had a deep respect for all living things. Being in the forest, respecting nature and keeping all wild plants intact was rewarding for me as I felt like I was honoring his respect for living things. I felt as though he was there wandering the forest with me as I carried his stone. He often loved to tease me and try to get under my skin as a child and adult. I felt like he was there saying “you can’t carry that heavy stone all the way through the forest.” That gave me the push to continue hiking even when I was tired and aching. Although, I was tired and aching I knew that this was nothing compared to what he experienced while fighting for our freedom.
Dear Megan and family, I can’t tell you what an honor it was to escort Richards stone from Portland to Millinocket for TSP’s BSP event. The TSP family never ceases to amaze with with their dedication and commitment to Maines fallen and their families. Megan, it was an honor to meet you and to be able to present Richards stone to you prior to your hike. Special again, to run into you at breakfast on Memorial day as things wound down. I learned a lot about Richard and the kind of person he was. I pray that more young men can learn the values and dedication that Richard had. Very rare qualities. I will be forever grateful to Richard and to you for your sacrifice. I hope that I will be seeing you again at future TSP events. Rest assured, Richard’s stone and story will be forever told by volunteers and others. He will always be remembered, respected and honored. MHANF. Thank you and God bless