He joined the U.S. Navy in about 1902, and graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 1906.

Among his classmates were many future admirals including Roland M. Brainard, Arthur L. Bristol, Milo F. Draemel, Robert L. Ghormley, William A. Glassford, Charles C. Hartigan, Aubrey W. Fitch, Frank J. Fletcher, Isaac C. Kidd, John S. McCain Sr., Leigh Noyes, Ferdinand L. Reichmuth, Sherwoode A. Taffinder, John H. Towers, Russell Willson, and Thomas Withers.

From December 1939 he served as Commander Base Force, Pacific Fleet.

On 27 February 1942 his title changed to Commander Service Force, Pacific Fleet (ComServPac).

He served in this capacity until the 13 March 1945 when he was assigned to command the South Pacific Area.