An ROTC member, Holder entered the United States Army after graduation and was killed while serving as an air cavalry officer during the Vietnam War.

[1][2] Born in Wichita Falls, Texas in 1940, Holder attended school in his home town[1] and moved to Goodwell, Oklahoma in 1958 to enter Panhandle A&M College.

A three-sport performer, Holder played golf and football for the Aggies, while setting track and field records in the long jump and 100-yard dash.

During his senior year in 1963, Holder broke school and NAIA records by rushing for 1775 yards on 275 carries in ten games.

[3] In 1964, Holder served his team as student assistant football coach, completed his degree in health and physical education, then became a commissioned officer in the Army.