Richard C. Stewart was born December 11, 1946, in Neptune, NJ, to Robert and Miriam Stewart. His home of record is Manasquan, NJ. He had one brother and one sister. He attended Manasquan High School, where he played football in 1964. He was a member of Belmar Methodist Church and its Young Fellowship group, Boy Scout Troop 40, Sea Scout Ship and the Future Farmers of America.

Stewart entered the US Marine Corps where he attained the rank of Lance Corporal (LCPL) and served in the 3rd Marine Infantry Regiment.

On February 3, 1966, Stewart was killed in action. Stewart was wounded in the head by an unknown explosive device while participating in an operation against hostile forces in the vicinity of DaNang, Quang Nam Province, South Vietnam. He was 19 years old.

Stewart was awarded the Purple Heart, the National Defense Medal and the Sharpshooter Medal.

Sources: Eileen Stewart (sister) and NJVVMF.