Colonel
Standford R. Hicks

Colonel Stanford R. Hicks was born in St. Louis, Missouri on August 20, 1917 and attended Wayne State University and the Detroit Institute of technology. He enlisted and then completed Ordnance Officer Candidate School in 1942. His 27-year career was characterized by outstanding leadership and dedication to the Ordnance Corps.

As commander of the 667th Ordnance Ammunition Company in 1946, Col. Hicks risked his life to save his soldiers. When a fire broke out in the Ikego Ammunition Depot in Japan, he directed his men to safety, even after an explosion seriously injured his leg.

During the Korean Conflict, his company, the 65th Ordnance Ammunition Company, played a vital role in support of the 1st Marine Division near Inchon. In 1950, he led his men up the beach, under heavy artillery fire, to organize an ammunition supply point. Through the efforts of Col. Hicks and his men, the 1st Marine Division was able to defeat the enemy. For his actions, he was awarded the Bronze Star and Legion of Merit.

Under his command in 1951, the 83rd Ordnance Battalion in Korea received the Presidential Unit Citation and Meritorious Unit Commendation for actions beyond the call of duty.

While serving as chief of the Training Division at Aberdeen Proving Ground in 1953, he revised training by adding “hands-on” techniques such as field exercises, combat scenarios, and renovation lines.

Other notable assignments include Chief of the Ammunition Division, Seventh Army and Army representative to the Armed Services Explosives Safety Board. Colonel Hicks retired in 1968.