Born in Indianapolis, Indiana, Twyman attended Georgetown University, Washington, D.C.

During the First World War served as an ensign in the United States Navy.

Accepted a commission in the United States Navy in February 1941 and served until September 1945.

He was president of the Thomas Hoist Company, a supplier of construction and industrial lifts.

This article incorporates public domain material from the Biographical Directory of the United States Congress