Professional Career
U.S. Coast & Geodetic Survey
1946 — 1977
Thirty-one years of service mapping America's coastlines, from the wilderness of Alaska to surveys across the nation.
A Career of Precision
After returning from World War II, Richard began his career with the United States Coast and Geodetic Survey in 1946. For over three decades, he worked as a surveyor, helping to map and document America's terrain with precision and dedication.
His work took him across the country, but some of his most memorable assignments were the summer expeditions to Alaska from 1950 through 1954. Richard documented these adventures with his 8mm camera, preserving a unique glimpse into surveying work in the Last Frontier.
Richard Remembers: Alaska 1950–1954
These videos are compiled from 8mm movies that Richard filmed during his summer surveying expeditions in Alaska. They have been organized by theme to share the experience of working in America's last great wilderness.
Surveying
The actual work of surveying in the Alaskan wilderness.
Around Camp
Daily life at the survey camps in remote Alaska.
Alaska Natives
Encounters with indigenous peoples during the expeditions.
Planes
Bush planes and aviation in the Alaskan backcountry.
Helicopters
Helicopter operations supporting the survey teams.
Boats
Maritime transport along Alaska's coastline.
Retirement Commemorative
Upon Richard's retirement in 1977, colleagues compiled a commemorative book celebrating his three decades of service with the Coast and Geodetic Survey.
View Retirement Book (PDF)