I grew up in the Olney section of Philadelphia and with no real opportunities in front of me, I joined the United States Navy right out of High School. My journey started in Great Lakes Illinois were I completed Basic Training.

My first full duty command was the destroyer USS Paul F. Foster, DD-964,  then the guided missile frigate USS Crommelin, FFG-37, both home ported at Long Beach, CA.

I was then assigned to the Naval Station Long Beach, where I was a Police Officer on the DOD police force.  Once completing shore duty, I returned to sea life and served on the USS Peleliu LHA-5 (an amphibious assault ship carrying helicopters, Harrier attack aircraft, as well as landing craft.) My primary job on all ships served was a Fire Marshal/Firefighting Instructor. My  last duty station was Naval Recruiting Command in Philadelphia, Pa where  I met Tina my wife; we have three great kids, Lindsey, Vincent, Torie Ann and five Grandchildren. I did retire from the United States Navy as a HT1 (SW/AW). I now work for Penn Dot Maintenance in King of Prussia, Pa as a District Safety Coordinator. My focus is serving my Community and Veterans in need