He was a recipient of several decorations, including two awards of the Army Distinguished Service Medal, the Silver Star, two awards of the Legion of Merit, the Bronze Star Medal, the French Legion of Honor (Chevalier), French Croix de Guerre with two palms, Polish Order of Polonia Restituta (Officer), Belgian Croix de Guerre, and South Korean Order of National Security Merit (Gukseon).

[5] He attained the rank of private first class and was discharged in July 1931 so he could begin attendance at the United States Military Academy.

[8] While at West Point, Rich was a member of the track and field, basketball, and cross country running teams.

[9] After graduation, he joined the New York Athletic Club, which he represented in the 400-meter hurdle event at several track and field meets.

[11] He was promoted to captain in September 1940, and served as the 19th Infantry's assistant adjutant in the period immediately prior to U.S. entry into World War II.

[12] Rich was serving as the 19th Infantry's Intelligence staff officer (S-2) when the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941.

[13] He took part in the subsequent defense of Hawaii, and served as the 19th Infantry's Operations staff officer (S-3), followed by assignment as commander of the regiment's 2nd Battalion.

[13] In February 1943, Rich was assigned as a student at Fort Benning's United States Army Airborne School.

[13] After arriving in France, Rich was assigned to the staff of the Sixth United States Army Group as the G-3's airborne tactics advisor.

[15] In June 1950, Rich was assigned as executive officer of the 325th Infantry Regiment at Fort Bragg, North Carolina.

[18] From July 1965 to August 1966 Rich served as deputy commander of Eighth United States Army in Korea.