A 1983 graduate of the United States Naval Academy and a native of Fryburg, Pennsylvania, he earned a Bachelor of Science in Systems Engineering.

He earned his master's in national security affairs (strategic planning) from the Naval Postgraduate School in 1990.

As commanding officer of USS Stethem, he deployed to the Persian Gulf and participated in maritime interception operations in support of United Nations sanctions against Iraq.

During his tour as commanding officer of USS Shiloh (CG-67), he assisted victims of the devastating tsunami off Indonesia.

Finally, as commander, Carrier Strike Group 3, he deployed to the Middle East, supporting Operations New Dawn (Iraq) and Enduring Freedom (Afghanistan).