After serving as an enlisted soldier in World War II he was admitted to West Point where he graduated in 1949 and was commissioned a second lieutenant in the regular Army.

During World War II he earned a battlefield (reserve) commission from private first class to 2nd lieutenant.

He served as a tactical officer and military history teacher and as assistant commandant of cadets at West Point.

[3] On 9 July 1972, Tallman and his aides had just landed at An Lộc to observe ARVN counter-offensive operations at the conclusion of the Battle of An Lộc when they were hit by North Vietnamese artillery fire, three of the group were killed instantly, while Tallman and two others were wounded.

[2][5] The Brigadier General Richard J. Tallman Memorial Bridge in Honesdale is named in his honor.