I reported aboard the Bristol in 1958 and was assigned to the forward fireroom until my transfer in 1965 as a Boilerman 2^nd class. I remained in the Navy for 22 years and retired as a Master Chief Boilerman.

I began my second career as an elementary school teacher in Clarksville, Tennessee and held that position for 20 years until my final retirement.

My wife Cindy and I have been married for 34 years and have one son who is an assistant principal in Nashville, Tennessee. We have three granddaughters, twins Zoe and Max who are 4 years old and Darbey who is 8 months old.