Richard A. Hewitt, CFP®

Dick's path into financial planning began during his Army career and ultimately brought him back to California's Central Coast. After retiring from the U.S. Army in 2004 he returned to Carmel, an area he first came to appreciate while stationed at nearby Fort Ord, to build out a financial planning division at a portfolio management firm. In June 2008, he co-founded Praetorian Guard together with his future business partner, Jerry Ledzinski II, to provide independent, fiduciary advice focused on helping families make confident, informed financial decisions.

Throughout his military career, Dick developed a passion for economics, personal finance, and education. He served on the faculty at the United States Military Academy at West Point on two separate occasions, teaching economics and personal finance before concluding his Army service as Director of Economics. He enjoys helping families evaluate complex financial decisions and develop practical strategies that align with their long-term objectives.

As Co-Founder of Praetorian Guard, Dick works closely with individuals, families, business owners, and military retirees. His areas of focus include retirement income planning, charitable giving strategies, education funding, and coordinating the many moving pieces of a family's financial life.

Dick earned a Bachelor of Science from West Point, an MBA in Finance and Statistics from the University of Chicago, and a Master of Science in Financial Planning from the College for Financial Planning. He has been a CFP® professional since 1996, co-authored The Armed Forces Guide to Personal Financial Planning, and is a member of Ed Slott's Elite IRA Advisor Group.

Dick lives in Carmel-by-the-Sea with his wife, Kelly. They have three adult children, one grandchild (so far) and a small zoo of pets. In their free time, they enjoy spending time with friends, reading, and exploring California wine country.