Soldier Spotlight: SFC Richard Ditlow - Serving Others, One Mission at a Time

Official Statements

• 213th Regional Support Group, November 9: “FORT INDINATOWN GAP, Pa. — For Sgt. 1st Class Richard James Ditlow III, service has taken many forms over the course of more than 20 years in the Pennsylvania Army National Guard.

  Assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 213th Regional Support Group, Ditlow serves as a food program manager with military occupational specialty 92G, culinary specialist. In his position, he helps ensure units have the equipment, oversight, and resources necessary to provide Soldiers with properly prepared meals.

  Originally motivated to join the Army National Guard by patriotism and a sense of adventure in the years following the September 11 attacks, Ditlow has built a career around supporting others. One of his most memorable military experiences was participating in a water mission in Syria, where he helped provide an essential resource to those serving overseas.

  Throughout his career, Ditlow has taken pride not only in his technical accomplishments, including water purification missions at various installations, but also in developing Soldiers and helping them grow professionally. Among his recent accomplishments, Ditlow was recognized as 213th RSG Nco of the Quarter, reflecting his dedication, professionalism, and contributions to the Pennsylvania Army National Guard. He credits the leadership and guidance of several first sergeants throughout his career with influencing his continued commitment to service.

  Outside the military, Ditlow works as a water treatment plant operator in Allentown, Pennsylvania, supporting both drinking water and wastewater operations throughout the Lehigh Valley. His civilian career and military experience complement one another, reinforcing his commitment to maintaining essential services and helping others.

  But there is another side to Ditlow that might surprise people. From 2007 to 2020, he pursued a career in professional wrestling, training under WWE Hall of Famer Afa Anoa’i and the legendary Wild Samoans at the Wild Samoan Training Center in Allentown. He later performed with WXW, appearing on regional television.

  When asked what advice he would give someone considering military service, Ditlow emphasized personal responsibility and ownership of one’s career.

  “The National Guard doesn’t change you. You change through the National Guard. You have to be the driving force behind your own career.”

  For Ditlow, service ultimately comes down to helping people. Whether supporting Soldiers, maintaining essential water services, or serving the people of Pennsylvania during emergencies, his motivation remains consistent.

  He credits his wife and daughter as an important part of his life and enjoys watching his daughter grow.

  “Your career doesn’t define you,” Ditlow said. “I’m a guy who wants to help people out.”