Richard A. Wasserman was born in New Jersey and served in the Army Reserve and National Guard for nearly 40 years. His military awards include the Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal, and Combat Action Badge. He graduated from Middlesex County College and has a BA in economics from the University of Washington, as well as a master's degree from The New School. He also earned a doctorate from Drew University. He has researched New Jersey’s role in World War I for 10 years.