The 1963 Roman Catholic High School graduate worked in a rifle manufacturing plant before joining the Army in October 1965. The 21-year-old specialist five trained as a medical specialist and was assigned to the Headquarters and Headquarters Company of the 4th Battalion, 47th Infantry, 9th Infantry Division. He died in combat on June 19, 1967. In a letter to his mother on Mother's Day 1966, he wrote from Vietnam: Freedom is why we're here Soldiers fighting so sincere God above wilt guide me through Dearest Mother, I love you In addition to his mother, he was survived by a brother and half-brother.