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Rob has been a part of the fire and EMS service since he was a Sophomore in High School, joining the Blue Valley Rescue Squad in 1995, Liberty Ambulance in 1997 and North Bangor Fire Company in 1999. He continued in EMS as a professional career, becoming a paid member of Medic 9 in Bangor, Pa from 2001 until 2008 when he moved to Hummelstown and accepted a position with Penn State Hershey Medical Center, Life Lion EMS where he currently works.
The driving force behind Rob getting involved in WWII reenacting was his maternal grandfather, Hanibal Rich of Succasunna, NJ. He was a Technician 5th Grade in the 332nd Ordnance Depot Company, US First Army. He also has deep respect for the other members of his family who served in WWII, all of whom are from his father’s side of the family: Uncle William Heile, served in Alaska with the US Army stationed in the Aleutian Islands; Uncle Vincent DiLullo, served stateside with the US Navy as a shore patrolman and Navy prison guard; Uncle Benjamin Wojcik, served stateside with the US Navy in the Norfolk Navy Yard; Uncle Sylvester Sliker, served in the US Navy on the USS Claxton; Uncle Paul Wilson, served with the 4th US Marine Division in the Pacific, fighting on Tinian, Saipan and Iwo Jima.
Fort Miles
The 45th Infantry Division reenactors was one of the very first groups to be invited to Fort Miles to do displays and interact with the public. After attending his first event at the site, Rob decided to throw his hat in the ring and become an active member of the 261st Coast Artillery as it was getting off the ground. Sgt Riley was brought on board as a Staff Sergeant due to his background with the 45th and experience in several roles in the reenacting world including black powder artillery. He has helped advise the staff as the unit grew and has been the Gun Crew chief since 2009 before being promoted to his current rank.
Personal Info
When not reenacting, Rob spends his free time fishing, tinkering at his gunsmithing bench and playing with a local Irish Band. He travels with his wife, Torey as time allows and enjoys researching his family history.
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