Richard Solano was born on June 19, 1948, in Oakland, California. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy on September 14, 1967, and completed basic training at NTC San Diego, California, in November 1967. Solano next attended Underwater Demolition Team Replacement Accession training with Class 044 at Naval Amphibious Base Coronado, California, from December 1967 to May 1968, followed by service with SEAL Team ONE at NAB Coronado from May 1968 until he was killed in the crash of a U.S. Army UH-1H Iroquois helicopter in South Vietnam on June 23, 1970. Richard Solano was buried at the Golden Gate National Cemetery in San Bruno, California.

The Sailor's Creed:

I am a United States Sailor.

I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States of America and I will obey the orders of those appointed over me.

I represent the fighting spirit of the Navy and those who have gone before me to defend freedom and democracy around the world.

I proudly serve my country's Navy combat team with Honor, Courage and Commitment.

I am committed to excellence and the fair treatment of all.