He graduated from the United States Military Academy, West Point, New York, in 1946, and the National War College, Fort Lesley J. McNair, Washington, D.C., in 1966.

After graduating from the academy, he completed pilot training and joined the 36th Troop Carrier Squadron at Pope Field, North Carolina.

He subsequently accompanied the group on successive moves to Langley Air Force Base, Virginia and RAF Wethersfield, England.

Hughes returned from England in February 1955 and was assigned to the Directorate of Military Personnel, Headquarters, United States Air Force, Washington, D.C.

He moved to George Air Force Base, California, in February 1961, where he served as squadron operations officer with the 31st Tactical Fighter Wing.

After graduation from the National War College in August 1966, Hughes was named vice commander of the 4525th Fighter Weapons Wing at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada.

In November 1968, Hughes returned to the United States for appointment as armed forces aide to President Nixon, effective 29 January 1969.