In August of 1957 I left the farm in Nebraska and joined the US Navy. During the first year I completed Boot Camp at Great Lakes, then went to Fleet Sonar School at Key West FL.

After graduation from Fleet Sonar School I was transferred to the USS Haynsworth, DD 700 stationed in Norfolk, VA.

My 3 year tour aboard the USS Haynsworth was very exciting.  I participated in two 6 month cruises to the Mediterranean; a couple shake down cruises at Guantanimo Bay Cuba; several Midshipman cruises and also the 1959 Great Lakes cruise in celebration of the opening of The Saint Lawerence Seaway joining Canada and the US.

When I was discharged in August of 1961 my rate and rank was Sonarman, 2nd Class.