From Marshall County, West Virginia. Enlisted in October 1941 and was trained at Fort Bragg, NC, Camp Claibourne, LA and Fort Benning, GA, where he received his commission. Married June Howard in Alexandria, LA on 13 March 42. Deployed overseas in April 44 and served as a platoon leader with the 315th Infantry Regiment in the 79th Division. Declared missing in action and then KIA and awarded the Bronze Star for actions on 29 August 1944 in France.