During World War I he served in the United States Army infantry, holding the rank of captain.

He was in private practice in Erie, Pennsylvania from 1921 until 1947, when he became United States Attorney for the Western District of Pennsylvania, a position he held until 1949.

[1] Burns received a recess appointment from President Harry S. Truman on October 21, 1949, to the United States District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania, to a new seat authorized by 63 Stat.

He was nominated to the same position by President Truman on January 5, 1950.

His service terminated on October 26, 1952, due to his death.