As a civilian, he worked 40 plus years for Boeing Aircraft Company in Wichita, Kansas as a printer. During this time he coached and mentored countless young men teaching them the skills of his trade.

While in the Kansas National Guard he found time to umpire basketball and softball from many organizations in the Wichita Area. He provided countless role modeling for many youths on the court and fields. His ability to connect with youth throughout his life made him an excellent role model and leadership figure for the youth of the Wichita community. He served at Umpire in Chief for the Two Rivers Youth Club and for the youth programs of Sedgwick and Butler counties.

He set an excellent example for the soldiers with whom he served. After his retirement he continued to serve his fellow soldiers by being a mentor and provided guidance for unit members and their families. He became an honorary member of the Infantry Regimental Staff to assist with the Family Readiness Group and Rear Detachment soldiers while the Infantry Battalion was deployed to Iraq.

During his career he recognized the need for standard training and promotion of the best qualified personnel. The curriculum he developed was adopted and expanded for use at the State NCO Academy in Salina, Kansas. He has been called a true patriot and a model citizen-soldier by his superiors and subordinates.

His military awards include the Legion of Merit, the National Defense Service medal, the armed Forces Reserve Medal with two Hourglass Devices, the Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal, (fourth award), the NCO Professional Development Ribbon with the Numeral 4, the Army Achievement Medal, the Army Reserve Components Overseas Training Ribbon, the Korean Service Medal with Hourglass Device, the Kansas National Guard Service Ribbon with two Hourglass Devices and the Kansas National Guard Meritorious Service Ribbon. He was inducted into the Kansas National Guard Hall of fame on 4 November 2007.