Tribute to Atomic Veteran Rick Meredith Blom

Atomic Veteran Rick Meredith Blom

Branch: Army

Rank: Specialist (E-4)

Role: Construction Surveyor

Service Period: May 1, 1979 - October 31, 1979

Location of Service: Lojwa, Runit Atoll

Honoring Specialist Rick Meredith Blom: A Legacy of Excellence in Military Engineering

Specialist Rick Meredith Blom distinguished himself as a Construction Surveyor in the United States Army, playing a pivotal role in the engineering and construction efforts at Runit Atoll—a site renowned for its significant environmental remediation projects. His service is a testament to the Army's core values of duty, honor, and commitment, reflecting his exceptional skill and dedication in contributing to the successful execution of essential construction tasks.

As a Construction Surveyor, Specialist Blom was responsible for the precise layout of concrete forms on the dome at Runit, a task critical to ensuring the structural integrity and accuracy of the construction project. His meticulous attention to detail and technical expertise were essential in achieving the project's highest standards, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to excellence. The dome, a containment structure for hazardous materials, required precise execution to guarantee its long-term effectiveness in protecting the environment and public health.

Specialist Blom's work required an in-depth understanding of surveying techniques and construction principles, skills that were indispensable for the project's success. His ability to accurately interpret and implement complex construction plans in a remote and challenging environment highlighted his adaptability, resilience, and dedication. The remote location of Runit Atoll added layers of difficulty, making his role even more critical to the overall mission.

Throughout his service, Specialist Blom exemplified the Army's highest ideals, showcasing a profound sense of duty, honor, and commitment. His contributions were instrumental in completing a critical construction project that played a key role in the environmental restoration of Runit Atoll. The work carried out on the dome has far-reaching implications for the safety and health of the atoll, and Specialist Blom's efforts were central to its success.

Today, we honor Specialist Rick Meredith Blom's significant contributions to the United States Army and the Runit Atoll construction project. His service reflects the highest ideals of military engineering and construction, highlighting his dedication, courage, and unwavering commitment to the mission. Specialist Blom's work has left a lasting impact on the successful remediation of Runit Atoll, exemplifying his profound commitment to creating a safer and better world. His legacy is one of technical excellence and dedication, setting a high standard for those who follow in his footsteps in the field of military engineering and environmental restoration.