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Whether in combat or cowboy boots, Director of Military Affairs and 2010 alumnus, Richard Delgado Jr., is the epitome of a patriotic servant. From sunup to sunset, he spends his days serving military members, veterans and their families— helping them achieve personal, academic and career success. It is an ongoing mission that he carries with him as a badge of honor.
At the age of 17, Delgado was eager to graduate high school serve his country. He entered the delayed entry program of the United States Marine Corp during his senior year. Just weeks after turning over his tassel, he traded his backpack for a ruck sack.
“We are excited to have Richard join the Commission to advise our Mayor, who represents the approximately 250,000 veterans who call the Alamo Region home,” says Major General Juan G. Ayala, USMC Ret, Director of the City of San Antonio’s Office of Military Affairs. “As a post 9/11 Veteran, Richard’s experience and insights will be invaluable to veterans from all generations, especially the fast-growing numbers of Iraq and Afghanistan veterans who are returning to San Antonio.”
Life as a Marine was exactly what he anticipated—a tough mission, but he preferred it that way. “It wasn’t easy,” said Delgado. “But I did what I had to do for my country.”
In 2004, Delgado suffered debilitating injuries. Doctors recommended limb amputation, but he refused. Instead, he endured numerous difficult surgeries and months of rehabilitation therapy that continue to this day. Ten years into his service, Delgado was honorably discharged from the Marine Corps.
With a change in career he did not anticipate, he quickly realized he needed a collegiate education to succeed as a civilian. After earning his associate’s degree, Delgado transferred to Texas A&M University-San Antonio in 2008—when the campus was located at Palo Alto College.
Delgado soon made a name for himself on campus—mostly for being a student who spoke up about needing more student veteran resources. Not one to sit idly and wait for change, Delgado decided to make a positive impact on campus. He joined the inaugural Student Government Association administration and became the organization’s second president. He also launched the A&M-SA Student Veterans of America chapter.
Less than a year after becoming a proud alumnus, Delgado took on a new mission of becoming the director of Military Affairs. In his role, he provides primarily military student support and helps veterans and their families transition to civilian life—a task that he knows isn’t easy.
“This is a mission my team and I take this very seriously,” says Delgado. “We stand ready to assist.”
Delgado’s service spans beyond the Military Embracing University. He was recently appointed by City of San Antonio Mayor Ron Nirenberg to the City Commission of Veterans Affairs. He believes his new role is an honor and looks forward to serving his military brothers and sisters in Military City USA.
Of his numerous roles and civic duties, Delgado’s enjoys the role of “dad” the best. His wife, a fellow marine, and Delgado have three beautiful children who consider their parents to be their heroes.