Richard Tom:  

Life Hello Everyone! I retired from active duty as a Major, US Army in 1996 after 31 years military service. Enjoyed retirement for about a month, then joined the staff of the Office of Admissions, Northern Illinois University as a Counselor. Currently, enjoying my second career as a Senior Assistant Director helping students and their families to prepare for college. At present, am very active and involved in the National Association for College Admission Counseling and in the Illinois Association for College Admission Counseling. Previously, lectured as Professor of Military Science at NIU, Rockford College, and at Kishwaukee & Waubonsee Community Colleges in Illinois. This area has a wonderful four season climate, which remains a tremendously refreshing change as I spent a great deal of time in Middle Eastern deserts while in the military. Served in Third US Army, ARCENT, with the Engineer Command during Desert Shield/Desert Storm. After the Gulf War, spent much time on engineering projects in several Middle Eastern nations. Originally, after high school, served during Vietnam War as a Navy Hospital Corpsman, HM3, 1967-1969, as an Operating Room Technician in medical/surgical support of the 1st and 3rd Marine Divisions. After coming home, moved to Salt Lake City, Utah and worked full time at the University of Utah Medical Center and at Holy Cross Hospital while attending the university part time. Graduated from the "U", Magna Cum Laude, and entered the US Army...Expand for more