I grew up in O'Neill, NE where I live until 1956. In 1956 my Dad was transferred to Norfolk, NE. Moving to Norfolk was a BIG change in my life, as I started a new school, attending Norfolk Jr. High in the 8th grade. Then I went on to Norfolk Sr. High. 

    In June of 1961 I enlisted into the Navy. By July of 1961 I was in a Navy Station at Naval Training Center, in San Diego, California. There I spent 3 months of basic training. After 3 months of training, in Bootcamp I was sent to Oakland CA., to a ship yard. This is where the ship was in DryDock, which was U.S.S. Cabildo-LSD-16. The Cabildo would be my home for the next 4 years of my life.   

    The ship spent 6 months in the ship yard for repair and overhaul at Todd Shipyard Alameda California. I was a Seaman Apprentice on the Deck Division. After being a seaman for 6 months, I became a Boatmate Seaman. After the overhaul was completed the ship was inspected and re-qualified for duty. At sea my duties were to keep the deck cleaned and stand watch at sea. In February of "62 we participated in Operation Dominic where I got to watch many Nuclear Bombs tested in the Pacific Ocean. I was a aboard ship when President John F. Kennedy was assassinated. I went to Vietnam twice aboard the ship Cabildo. I was discharged from the Navy in 1965 as Boatswain's Mates 3rd Class Petty Officer.

    After the Navy I went to work at Sherwood Med. in Norfolk, NE. After 36.5 years I retired. In April of '66 I married my wife. Together we had a son and daughter. Today we have 3 grandchildren; 2 grandsons and 1 granddaughter. I still live in Norfolk and am retired. In my spare time I like to do lots of camping, fishing, and hunting. I also am a Life Member of the VFW and a Member of the American Legion for 41 years. I am also a member of the Honor Guard for VFW Post 1644.