Honor Richard Ray Mossontte: A True American Hero

Help Honor a True American Hero

A Father. A War Hero. A Man Who Gave Everything.

My name is Cierra and I’m organizing this on behalf of my sister, Amy, to honor her father, Richard Ray Mossontte.

Richard was a decorated Vietnam War hero who served as a point man in an infantry unit in the Army, one of the most dangerous roles in combat. He was the first to step into the unknown, the first to face enemy fire, the one trusted to protect those behind him. His courage on the battlefield earned him some of the nation’s highest military honors:

• The Silver Star – The third-highest U.S. military decoration for extreme heroism in combat

• The Bronze Star Medal – For heroic service in combat

• The Purple Heart – Awarded for combat injuries sustained in battle

• The Air Medal – For combat air missions and acts of aerial heroism

• The Combat Infantryman’s Badge (CIB) – Given only to those who engaged in direct ground combat

• Several other commendations recognizing his dedication and sacrifice

The Bronze Star + Purple Heart + Silver Star combination is seen only in highly decorated combat veterans and speaks to the many acts of valor he performed.

His sacrifices serve as a testament to his unwavering commitment to our country and his fellow soldiers. They demonstrate his resilience, bravery, and selflessness.

But his sacrifice did not end on the battlefield. Richard returned home carrying wounds that left him 100% disabled, a lasting price he paid for this country.

Yet despite these struggles, he remained a man of immense kindness and generosity. He had a heart bigger than this world, always putting others before himself, always willing to help, and always finding a way to give even when he had nothing left.

Then, in an instant, he was gone.

Richard’s passing was sudden and unexpected, leaving Amy to navigate both the heartbreak of losing her father and the overwhelming burden of giving him the farewell he deserves. While it’s still under investigation, some evidence is suggesting that he took his own life.

He is eligible for burial at Arlington National Cemetery, a sacred place reserved for America’s greatest heroes. But there are many costs not fully covered by the VA and before he can be laid to rest these expenses must be paid.

Richard gave everything—his body, his peace, and his future for our country. Now help is needed to ensure he is laid to rest with the dignity, honor, and respect he so deeply deserves.

Thank you for taking time to read, please share this fundraiser.

Rest in peace Richard. Your love, courage, and sacrifice will never be forgotten.