[2][3] Abendroth served with the army in France during World War I, first in an Infantry company, and later with an Engineer unit.

[6][7] Abendroth also pursued a civilian career in state government, including appointments as a purchasing agent and claims examiner in the Purchasing Department, budget director for the State of Idaho, disbursing officer in the Highway Department, and rural electrification manager for Idaho Power.

[8][9][10] In 1938, Abendroth was tried on embezzlement charges, accused of taking money while working as a purchasing agent for the state.

[16] He served until December, when a change in the governorship led to his resignation, enabling the new governor to appoint his own candidate.

[17] As a colonel, Abendroth was then called to active duty, serving in the National Guard and Reserve Policy Office for the Chief of Staff of the United States Army from 1947 to 1949.

[2] The Abendroth Trophy is awarded each year to the best Army or Air Force unit of the District of Columbia National Guard during annual training.