Memorial

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Richard Brown attended college.

He joined the Air Corps of the U.S. Army Reserve in Springfield, Massachusetts, on 3 September 1942.

Statement from 1st Lt Walter A. McKinney, who was flying in the same group: "I was flying white no. 3 in a flight led by Capt Richard H. Brown. His wingman was 2nd Lt Harry Lordi, and 2nd Lt Walter H. Smith was my wingman.
Red Leader was in contact with several ground controllers and was trying to locate a target in support of our troops. Overcast was 2,300 ft at base, decreasing to 1,700 feet as we crossed the enemy's lines. In a circle to the left near a woods, Capt Brown and his wingman were at approximately 1,200 feet. I was behind crossing over in the turn at 1,600 feet, allowing Red flight to pass by. Anti-aircraft of 20mm, 40mm, and 88mm opened up with a concentrated umbrella. The fuses were cut from about 800 feet up to 1,500 feet. As they opened fire Lt Lordi was observed crossing under to the inside of Capt Brown. Shortly, Lt Lordi called in and stated clearly but with difficulty that he was hit. I then observed strikes on what I believed to be Capt Brown's aircraft, followed by billowing smoke. Then aircraft did a slow wingover to the left and struck an open field. He did not release his bombs. Because of damage to my own aircraft, I lost track of the remaining aircraft in the lead element. No further R.T. was heard."

Capt Richard H. Brown was first buried at the Temporary American Military Cemetery of Foy, Belgium.