Member Spotlight
Article by McGrath
Spotlight on Rear Admiral Richard Smith (CL9)
- Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?
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I’m a husband and father of 3 (2 girls and one boy)
I’m a radio DJ by profession and have been working for the same station for
13 years. I own an ad agency that creates commercials for small business clients.
I have one brother, my twin who is also a member of OTF and one sister.
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- What are your hobbies and interests away from OTF?
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I am currently serving my second term as the
Commander in Chief of Fleet 31 International, a Star Trek fan organization. I
am also an adult leader in the Boy Scouts of America. I am serving as the Cub
Master of my son’s Cub Scout Pack and an Assistant Scoutmaster in the
companion Troop. I like reading, I write on occasion, and mainly relax with a
good fire in season.
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- What is your greatest achievement and how has it
shaped you?
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There are several things that make my list. First
off I love being a Dad. It changes your whole perspective being responsible
for and teaching another person about life. I’ve been blessed with several opportunities
to lead. Whether it be the Boy Scouts, my College Service experience, my OTF
service, or leading Fleet 31, I’m always learning and try to be a man of
integrity.
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- What was your dream job growing up?
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I wanted to be an Art Teacher when I was growing up. I ended up
writing for my high school newspaper and went to college for Journalism. I
ended up taking a job as a DJ while I was in college and the rest is history.
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- What is the craziest thing you have ever done?
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That has to be the way my wife and I got together. We were talking on
the phone one night and I asked her to move in with me. It was Tuesday and I
picked her up on Saturday. 11 years and 3 kids later I think a crazy move was
the right one.
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- What would be your 'perfect' day?
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Honestly, I work quite a bit so a
day off where I don’t have to clean anything would be great.
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- If you could live in a book, TV show or movie, what
would it be and why?
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That’s a hard one. Of course I should say
Star Trek. I’d be on a different career path if it were available, but I’m
also a fan of Star Wars. I’d get a kick out of using the force. I like the
West Wing too.
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- If you could use technology to do one thing, what would
it be?
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I’d love be able to transport. Would be nice to be
able to see old friends and not have to worry about cost. Would make things
closer.
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And finally...
- What are your OTF memorable moments?
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It took me a Long time to be promoted to Lt. Commander. I was proud of
my work in Entertainment at the time. I was also very happy to be promoted to
Captain and eventually Rear Admiral. Very few people make it that far and I
am happy that my contributions made the Outpost a better place. I don’t think
my memorable moments are quite over yet.
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