Nicknamed "Abe" by his classmates at Benjamin Franklin High School. He was described in a caption next to his senior picture in the 1951 yearbook as "a quiet type, but one who has determination and the will to get what he wants," English wanted a career in the Marine Corps. The 34-year-old sergeant served in a variety of assignments over 16 years, including combat in Korea and Vietnam. He was assigned to Company 1 of the 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines, 1st Marine Division, in Vietnarn. English died in Quang Tri Province on June 2, 1967. He was survived by his wife.