On the outbreak of the Spanish-American War in April 1898, he enlisted in the Navy, was appointed an Ensign the following month and served in the latter capacity until October 1898, when he was honorably discharged.

He returned to the United States in August 1919, and from September 1919 to January 1921, was in charge of ordnance material at the Depot of Supplies, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Following his return from Haiti, and until February 1929, he was in charge of War Plans Section, Headquarters Marine Corps, and during the period (in 1928) he was captain of the American International Rifle Team which competed at Rotterdam.

Also, during the period (in 1926), he was appointed Aide to the President of Haiti during the latter's visit to Washington, and received the Haitian Medal of Honor and Merit for his contribution to the success of the mission.

[1] He completed his tour at Parris Island in the late summer of 1939 and was slated to assume command of the Department of the Pacific in the fall.