Their Story
Richard Lee Woodside Sr. was a heroic individual who served our country in hopes of protecting the nation from the threats of rapidly spreading communism. However, before any of this he “was born April 5, 1947, in Galesburg, son of Norman and Imajean Ross Woodside”[1]. Additionally, he had many brothers and sisters[2]. At the age of 18 he enlisted into the military and became an Airman for the U.S. navy right in the middle of the Vietnam War[3]. To reiterate, the role of America during the Vietnam War was to prevent the spread of communism by defending South Korea against North Korea communist forces[4]. He served courageously for 3 years and in 1968 he found a new way to serve our country. Instead of being out on the battlefield he took a job at the Rock Island Arsenal. He received a position as an industrial equipment mechanic and worked diligently for more than 20 years[5].
Along with his dedication to our nation as a whole, he was a committed member of the Quad-Cities community. He was an avid participant in local government[6] and pushed for change in local neighborhoods[7]. After marrying his wife, Sharon Davis-Mehrens on November 13, 1981 the two had many children and grandchildren[8]. These close relatives attest that he “managed a number of different softball teams and enjoyed watching and attending St. Louis Cardinals games. He enjoyed fishing with his family and friends”.[9] Not to mention, he also invested his time in volunteering for the Davenport Dads Club and local Boy Scouts of America[10]. Both of these are service organizations that aim to help children and other individuals of the community. As you have learned, Richard Woodside’s passion for helping others is not one of simply local assistance. His efforts range from supporting and fighting for changes near his home, to serving our nation on a global scale.
His dedication, bravery, and perseverance will not be forgotten. His memory lives on today because his impact was so influential.
References
[1] “Obituaries: Richard Woodside Sr.” The Dispatch. August 03, 2003.
[2] “Richard Lee Woodside Sr.” Find a Grave. March 15, 2011.
[3] “Woodside, Richard Lee.” Fold3. July 06, 2020.
[4] Kent, G. “Lyndon B. Johnson: Foreign Affairs.” Miller Center. May 28, 2022.
[5] “Obituaries: Richard Woodside Sr.” The Dispatch. August 03, 2003.
[6] “Public Notice.” Quad-City Times. September 26, 1995.
[7] “Alderman Pushes Paving Project.” Quad-City Times. October 26, 1997.
[8] “Richard Lee Woodside Sr.” Find a Grave. March 15, 2011.
[9] “Obituaries: Richard Woodside Sr.” The Dispatch. August 03, 2003.
[10] “Obituaries: Richard Woodside Sr.” The Dispatch. August 03, 2003.