Richard Crowder

Military Service

Richard Crowder, a native of Covington, Virginia, proudly served in the Marine Corps, being inducted on February 1, 1966, and discharged as a Lance Corporal on January 31, 1968. During his service, Richard bravely deployed to Vietnam, later completing assignments at Camp Hansen in Okinawa, Japan, Camp Pendleton in California, and Camp Lejeune in North Carolina. His dedication earned him several prestigious honors, including the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnamese Service Medals, the Vietnamese Campaign Medal with Device, the Presidential Unit Citation Medal, and a Rifle Marksmanship Badge.

Post-Military Career

After his military service, Richard resumed work at Hercules, Inc., while pursuing a Business degree through the GI Bill. His career flourished as he helped navigate Hercules’ transition to Applied Extrusion Technologies (AET), ultimately retiring in 2006 as a Human Resources Manager. Richard chose HR to foster positive relationships between employees at all levels. Even in retirement, he continued contributing through a consulting group that provided flexible part-time opportunities for retirees.

Community Contributions

Richard Crowder’s commitment to his community is as remarkable as his career. He has volunteered with the Covington Rescue Squad and his church, Granbery Memorial United Methodist, serving as Finance Committee Chairman. His extensive leadership includes roles such as President of the Covington Chamber of Commerce, President of the Dabney S. Lancaster Community College Education Foundation, and Board Member for Lewis Gale Hospital in Alleghany.

Richard also played a significant role in corporate social responsibility efforts at AET. He facilitated land donations to support Jackson River Enterprises, which provides jobs for individuals with disabilities, as well as to the City of Covington for softball facilities and new schools.

Recognizing a Hometown Hero

Richard Crowder’s dedication to his country and community embodies true service. Branch Partner Jason Helmintoller from ALCOVA Mortgage’s Covington Branch proudly presented Richard with the Hometown Hero award in recognition of his profound impact on his community and beyond.

Pictured left to right: Jason Helmintoller, Richard Crowder, Evelyn Crowder (wife), Ava Lewis (granddaughter) and Dawn Lewis (daughter)