 A graduate of Central High School, he achieved the distinction of serving simultaneously as Class President, Governor of Boys State, Co-Captain of the football team, and commander of the JROTC unit.He was commissioned a second lieutenant on June 5, 1953 upon graduation from the United States Naval Academy.As Brigade Commander in his senior year at the Naval Academy, he was specially commended at graduation for exemplary officer-like qualities, which contributed "to the development of naval spirit and loyalty within the Brigade."