Richard was born in 2346 in Greensboro NC, North America, Earth to startfleet officers Tony and Cheryl Poteat. Life was enjoyable in the Triad region. Richard listened intently to their exploits at work. He made up his mind at an early age that he wanted to join Starfleet. He started to make himself useful at the various departments, as an explorer.
He was a delight to teach, his teachers impressed with his initiative. As soon as he hit high school age, he enlisted in the JROTC to receive medical training. The ASI and SAS1 of the JROTC department encouraged him to do his best. As a cadet, he found himself taking on various classes. It was when a Starfleet Officer came to talk to his unit, when Richard made up his mind. Richard applied for an appointment into Starfleet Academy, as was accepted. He chose a Security/Tactical Track. He served admirably as a Cadet on various starfleet postings, eventually ending up at SB49
