In the early stages of World War II, General Howard commanded the 4th Marine Regiment on Bataan and Corregidor from December 7, 1941, to May 6, 1942.

From August 1934 until June 1938, he served as the executive officer, Division of Operations and Training, Headquarters Marine Corps.

In June 1938, he was ordered to the Naval War College in Newport, Rhode Island, as a student in the Senior Course.

[4] For his distinguished service during the bitter fighting at Bataan and Corregidor, he was awarded the Navy Cross.

[2] He was returned to the United States, and after several months, was ordered to the Marine Barracks, Parris Island, South Carolina, as Deputy Commanding General.

[6] Returning to China in September 1946, General Howard assumed command of the First Marine Division (Reinforced) with headquarters in Tientsin.

[7] Howard retired from the Marine Corps on March 31, 1953, and was advanced to the grade of lieutenant general.