Became a member of Battery A, 128th Field Aetillery, Missouri National Guard, in January 1939. Attended weekly drill and annual summer training in 1939 and 1940. Was inducted into federal service as a Private with above unit in November 1940. Was promoted to Pfc. in March 1941, as a radio operator, and to Technician Fourth Grade (T/4) in June 1942, as a radio repairman. Promoted to Sergeant in October 1944 as Communications Chief. Was honorably discharged in September 1945.
During the four Years and ten months of federal service, nineteen months were spent in the European Theater of Operations, including ten months of combat with the 6th Armored Division of the 3rd Army.
Battle Stars were recieved for the following major campaigns, "Norther France", "Rhineland" and "Ardennes", plus the Bronze Star Medal and Citation.
Became a member of the Missouri National Guard again in November 1947, when Battery A, 128th FA, was reactivated in St. Louis, Missouri. Attended weekly drill and annual summer training in 1948 and 1949. Was promoted to Staff Sgt. in December 1947, as Communication Chief, to Technical Sgt. in February 1949, as Platoon Leader in charge of Fire Direction, Survey, and Communication sections. Was promoted to Second Lieutenant in May 1950, as Assistant Executive Officer. Resigned in July 1950, after leaving the state to accept employment in Ohio.
Appleid for direct commision in the Air Force Reserve as a Communications Officer, and was appointed First Lieutenant in April 1951. Did not participate actively. Resigned in March 1954.
