I enlisted in the Navy in Oct. of 1937 and was sent to Boot Camp in Newport, RI. for 3 months. After Boot Camp I was assigned to the USS HOUSTON at Charleston, SC. and at that time it was President Roosevelt's Cruiser. The same day we boarded the ship, the President came aboard and we left for the Guantanama Bay to review the Fleet.

I was transferred to the USS SALT LAKE CITY in April of 1939 and served on her until 1943 when I was transferred to new construction after the Battle of Cape Esperance.

During my service on the USS SLC I was a member of the boxing team and baseball team. My good friend and shipmate Bob "Ace" Duval won the All Navy Lightweight title.

I enjoyed my time on the SLC and I am very proud of "her" and "her" war record. She had the best shipmates in the Fleet.