Who Is Richard Winters? Age, Biography and Wiki
Richard Winters was born on January 21, 1918, and sadly passed away on January 2, 2011. He is best known for his leadership during World War II, particularly as a Major in the 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment of the 101st Airborne Division. His remarkable military career has made him a historical figure, celebrated for his bravery and tactical acumen.
By 2025, Winters would be 107 years old if he were still alive, a testament to his legacy of courage and dedication in service to the United States. His life story has been immortalized through books and the acclaimed HBO miniseries "Band of Brothers," showcasing his command during critical battles such as the D-Day invasion and the Battle of Carentan.
| Occupation | Service |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | January 21, 1918 |
| Age | 92 Years |
| Birth Place | New Holland, Pennsylvania, U.S. |
| Horoscope | Aquarius |
| Country | U.S |
| Date of death | 2 January, 2011 |
| Died Place | Palmyra, Pennsylvania, U.S. |
Popularity
Richard Winters's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Richard Winters stood at a height of approximately 5 feet 8 inches (173 cm). Throughout his life, he maintained a healthy physique, which was vital for his role as a soldier. During his active years, he weighed around 160 lbs (72 kg). His fitness level and endurance were critical to the success of his military operations, influencing the well-being of his troops under his command.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Richard Winters was married to Ethel Winters, and they shared a strong bond that lasted until his passing. The couple had three children together. Winters was known for being a devoted family man, often prioritizing family values even amidst the turmoil of war.
Though specifics about any potential romantic relationships beyond his marriage are not publicly documented, Winters is celebrated for his commitment to both his family and country, highlighting the importance of loyalty and love in his life's narrative.
In 1951, he and his wife bought a small farm where later they built a home and raised two children. In June 1951, Winters was recalled to active duty in the Army during the Korean War.
He was ordered to join the 11th Airborne Division at Fort Campbell, Kentucky, but he was given six months to report and in this time he traveled to Washington, D.C., to speak to General Anthony McAuliffe, in the hope that he could convince the Army not to send him to Korea.
He explained to McAuliffe that he had seen enough of war and apparently McAuliffe understood his position, but explained that he was needed because of his command experience. Winters then reported to Fort Dix, New Jersey, where he was assigned as a regimental planning and training officer.
Net Worth and Salary
At the time of his death, Richard Winters' net worth was estimated to be around $1 million. While much of his wealth came from his military pension and several speaking engagements, it also included proceeds from the book authored by Stephen E. Ambrose, "Band of Brothers," and royalties from the subsequent television miniseries.
Throughout his later years, Winters participated in various interviews and events, further contributing to his financial earnings while promoting awareness of the sacrifices made by veterans.
Career, Business, and Investments
Winters’ military career began during World War II, where he quickly rose through the ranks due to his adept leadership skills. After the war, he transitioned into a successful career in the corporate sector, working in the field of agriculture and management. Winters also dedicated time towards educating younger generations on leadership and teamwork through various speaking engagements.
His investments were modest but reflected his practical mindset, focusing primarily on interests that would benefit his family rather than seeking high-risk ventures. Winters emphasized the importance of a grounded and responsible approach to financial growth, a principle he maintained throughout his life.
Richard Davis Winters (January 21, 1918 – January 2, 2011) was a United States Army officer who served as a paratrooper in "Easy Company" of the 506th Infantry Regiment within the 101st Airborne Division during World War II. Winters was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for his successful command of the assault on Brécourt Manor during the invasion of Normandy.
Social Network
While Richard Winters did not have a strong social media presence during his lifetime, his legacy continues to thrive on platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram through fan pages and tribute accounts dedicated to his accomplishments and the historical significance of his actions during the war. The "Band of Brothers" miniseries remains prevalent in discussions regarding military history, and various groups and forums celebrate his life’s work.
In September 1944, the 506th PIR parachuted into the Netherlands, near the village of Son, north of Eindhoven, as part of Operation Market Garden, a combined airborne and armored operation. On 5 October 1944, a German force attacked the 2nd Battalion's flank and threatened to break through the American lines.
At the same time, four men in an Easy Company patrol were wounded. Returning to headquarters, they reported that they had encountered a large group of Germans at a crossroads about 1300 yards to the east of the company command post.
Realizing the seriousness of the situation, Winters took one squad from 1st Platoon, and moved off toward the crossroads, where they observed a German machine gun firing to the south, toward the battalion headquarters, from a long distance. After surveying the position, Winters led the squad in an assault on the gun crew.
Soon after taking the position, the squad took fire from a German position opposite them. Estimating that this position was held by at least a platoon, Winters called for reinforcements from the rest of the 1st Platoon and led them, and a platoon from Fox Company in a successful assault. Later it was discovered there had been at least 300 Germans.
Education
Richard Winters graduated from the Pennsylvania State University in 1941 with a degree in agriculture. His education played a vital role in shaping his leadership abilities and strategic thinking, elements that would define his military service. His educational background influenced his management style in later business endeavors, demonstrating the importance of knowledge and continual learning.
The family soon moved to nearby Ephrata, and then to Lancaster when he was eight years old. He graduated from Lancaster Boys High School in 1937 and attended Franklin and Marshall College.
