Rick Bond was born on July 29, 1958, in Orlando, Florida. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy on August 30, 1979, and completed basic training in October 1979. Petty Officer Bond next attended Quartermaster A School at NTC Great Lakes, Illinois, from October to December 1979, followed by Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL Training with Class 108 at Naval Amphibious Base Coronado, California, from December 1979 to July 1980. His first assignment was with Underwater Demolition Team ELEVEN (UDT-11) at NAB Coronado from July 1980 until he was killed in a training accident aboard the submarine USS Grayback (LPSS-574) on January 16, 1982.

The Sailor's Creed:

I am a United States Sailor.

I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States of America and I will obey the orders of those appointed over me.

I represent the fighting spirit of the Navy and those who have gone before me to defend freedom and democracy around the world.

I proudly serve my country's Navy combat team with Honor, Courage and Commitment.

I am committed to excellence and the fair treatment of all.