Served for over 20 years in the United States Army, retiring as a master sergeant in 1979. He was a member of the Special Forces (Green Berets), completed two tours of duty during the Vietnam War, and earned the Bronze Star Medal, the Army Commendation Medal, the Army Good Conduct Medal with a bronze clasp with 5 loops, National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal with 1 silver and 2 bronze service stars, the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, the Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm, the Republic of Vietnam Civil Actions Medal - 1st class, and the Parachutist Badge.
