Chief Warrant Officer 5 Randolph A. Bergan, a native of St. Thomas, retired June 16 after a 40-year career in the U.S. Army.
According to a news release from the 340 Group, Bergan began his career in December 1976. At the time of his retirement, he held the position of senior signal technical advisor for the 11th Theater Tactical Signal Brigade stationed in Fort Hood, Texas.
Bergan served overseas during his military service in Germany, Korea, Panama and Italy, as well as combat deployments to Saudi Arabia, along with various U.S. mainland assignments.
His awards and decorations include the Bronze Star Medal, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Joint Service Achievement Medal and the Army Achievement Medal.
Reflecting on his life and career, Bergan, a 1976 graduate of the Ivanna Eudora Kean High School, advised Virgin Islands youth to take advantage of their education.
“It’s an awesome opportunity that you all have today in terms of education,” he said. “There is so much you can do today for yourself, your island and your country. Education is key; not fancy cars and clothes. It’s what you have in your mind that is going to take you far. Knowledge is power. So, stay in school and get your education.”
In retirement Bergan and his wife Laveen plan to settle in central Texas.
The 340 Group LLC is a consortium of small businesses owned by Virgin Islanders specializing in event planning, consulting services and business development. On behalf of the group, managing partner Alvin Dalmida presented Bergan an Official Centennial coin as part of his retirement gifts “in recognition of this outstanding Virgin Islander’s accomplishments, service and contributions to our nation.”
