Judge Richard D. Bennett: Veteran & Federal Court Leader
Judge Richard D. Bennett is recognized by the Federal Bar Association Maryland Chapter in celebration of Veterans Day and National Veterans and Military Families Month. A distinguished jurist and military veteran, Judge Bennett’s decades of service reflect a profound dedication to both country and law. As a United States District Judge and retired Army officer, he exemplifies the values of leadership, duty, and sacrifice that define military and public service alike.
Serving more than 20 years in the U.S. Army Reserve and the Maryland National Guard, Judge Bennett rose to the rank of Major in the Retired Reserve. He received multiple commendations, including the Maryland Distinguished Service Cross and the Meritorious Service Medal. His career in both the military and judiciary has been shaped by a deep respect for those who serve and the families who support them.
As we honor Veterans Day and Military Families Month, the FBA Maryland Chapter proudly celebrates Judge Richard D. Bennett’s exceptional legacy—both in uniform and on the bench.
From Law School to JAG Officer: A Foundation in Service
Judge Richard D. Bennett began his military journey during a pivotal time in American history. While pursuing his law degree amid the Vietnam War, his original plan was to join the Marine Corps Judge Advocate Division after graduation. However, when graduate school deferments were canceled, he entered the Army Reserve as an enlisted soldier while still in law school—a decision that reflected early on his readiness to serve despite personal and professional hurdles.
After earning his law degree, Judge Bennett began his civilian legal career as an Assistant U.S. Attorney. His casework frequently involved military installations, which reignited his interest in military service. He soon enrolled in the U.S. Army Judge Advocate General’s School in Charlottesville, Virginia, and became a JAG officer in the Maryland National Guard.
His legal and military paths continued to converge over the years. Judge Bennett’s legal experience strengthened his ability to provide counsel within the military, and his military training reinforced his professional ethics and leadership. These dual perspectives became central to his philosophy of justice, rooted in structure, discipline, and service to others.
Supporting Soldiers During Operation Desert Storm
Throughout his 14 years as Deputy Staff Judge Advocate for the Maryland National Guard, Judge Richard D. Bennett played a critical role in legal and logistical planning for troops deployed during Operation Desert Storm. As the Gulf War escalated in 1990–1991, Judge Bennett was deeply involved in the mobilization of Maryland National Guard units for active duty overseas.
He vividly recalls the courage and readiness of citizen-soldiers from all walks of life. Farmers from the Eastern Shore, doctors and nurses from Baltimore hospitals, and state troopers from Towson—all reported for duty without hesitation. Judge Bennett remembers being struck by their quiet resolve: “Not once did I ever see these valiant citizen-soldiers complain or cite personal circumstances which made it inconvenient for them to return to military duty.”
In addition to legal guidance on deployment matters, Judge Bennett took on a profoundly personal role, drafting over 700 wills and powers of attorney for service members and their families. This experience gave him profound insight into the human cost of military service. It also underscored his belief that legal professionals in military contexts must balance technical knowledge with empathy and trust.
While Judge Bennett was preparing for deployment himself, the conflict came to a swift conclusion. Yet the experience left an indelible mark, reinforcing his commitment to supporting military personnel both as a legal advisor and as a judge.
Military Values on the Bench: A Career Built on Service
The values that guided Judge Richard D. Bennett in the military—integrity, discipline, and loyalty—continue to define his judicial philosophy. Appointed to the United States District Court for the District of Maryland, Judge Bennett has served with distinction, applying the same sense of duty and fairness he honed in his years of military service.
He credits his time as a JAG officer with shaping his ability to lead, connect with people from all walks of life, and administer justice with humility. Providing legal counsel for hundreds of service members and witnessing the sacrifices of military families gave him a unique understanding of the weight of public service. In his words, “It was an absolute privilege to serve with these men and women,” and that privilege continues to motivate his work on the bench.
Judge Bennett’s service also highlights the strong connection between military experience and public leadership. His story serves as an example of how veterans bring valuable perspective to the judiciary, enriching the legal system with discipline, empathy, and a deep appreciation for the Constitution they swore to uphold.
Honoring Judge Richard D. Bennett During Military Families Month
Judge Richard D. Bennett has lived a life defined by duty—first to his fellow soldiers and later to the people of Maryland as a federal judge. His legal career, military service, and judicial leadership reflect a unified commitment to fairness, accountability, and service above self. Whether preparing legal documents for deploying troops or delivering rulings from the bench, he has consistently brought integrity and compassion to the task.
As we observe Veterans Day and National Veterans and Military Families Month, the Federal Bar Association Maryland Chapter proudly honors Judge Bennett’s contributions. His career is a powerful reminder that those who serve in the military often continue that service long after they hang up the uniform.
To learn more about upcoming events celebrating Maryland’s legal and military leaders, visit the Federal Bar Association Maryland Chapter events page.
