Middletown's Veteran Sgt. Richard Arthur Kowalker

Sergeant Richard Arthur Kowalker, known throughout Connecticut as “The Riderless Horse Marine,” passed away on May 2, 2025, at the age of 76. Born September 21, 1948, in Middletown, Connecticut, Sgt. Kowalker devoted his life to honoring the fallen with an unmatched spirit of patriotism, compassion, and duty. He was laid to rest with full military honors on June 6, 2025, at the State Veterans Cemetery in Middletown.

A Marine’s Purpose: Honoring the Dead:
Sgt. Kowalker served in the United States Marine Corps for 11 years, including a combat deployment during the Vietnam War from April 1968 to May 1969. For his courage and sacrifice, he received the Purple Heart, Vietnam Service Medal, and the Presidential Unit Citation. Upon returning home, he served his community working security at the Long Lane reform school in Middletown. But it was his later calling—to honor fallen veterans—that came to define his legacy.

After facing the challenges of post-traumatic stress, Sgt. Kowalker found healing through a mission rooted in reverence: ensuring no veteran was laid to rest without honor.

The family of Richard Kowalker, a retired Marine reached out and asked if the Ct Governors Horse Guard would provide a riderless horse for his funeral services in Middletown at the Veterans Cemetery. Mr Kowalker had attended well over 700 military funerals with his horse to honor veterans. Here Is A Video At Richard's 73rd Birthday Party:

Also A Tribute To Richard From Tom Callinan: