General Richard D. Hearney last served as the Assistant Commandant of the Marine Corps, Headquarters Marine Corps, Washington, D.C.
General Hearney is a native of Petaluma, Calif. He was commissioned a second lieutenant in 1962 following completion of the Platoon Leaders Class Program. He holds a B.S. degree from Stanford University and an M.S. degree from Pepperdine University. He graduated from the Naval War College, Newport, R.I., in June 1980.
General Hearney has commanded at the squadron, air group, and air wing level. During Desert Shield and Desert Storm he served as Deputy Commander, I MEF. His staff tours included Deputy Director, J-3, U.S. European Command as well as Deputy Chiefs of Staff for Requirements and Programs, and Aviation at Headquarters Marine Corps, Washington, D.C. General Hearney was advanced to the grade of general and assumed duties as the Assistant Commandant of the Marine Corps on July 15, 1994.
His personal decorations and medals include: the Defense Superior Service Medal; Legion of Merit with gold star; Distinguished Flying Cross; Bronze Star Medal with Combat “V”; Purple Heart; Air Medal with Combat “V” and bronze numeral “39”; and Navy Commendation Medal with Combat “V”.