On April 25, 1967 John enlisted in the United States Navy; while in the service he obtained his High School G.E.D. In the Navy John was promoted to seaman 1st class then to Boatswain’s Mate 3rd class. John earned The National Defense Service Medal, The Viet-Nam Service Medal w/Silver star & 1 Bronze star, Korean Service Medal, Vietnamese Gallantry Cross w/Palm and the Viet Nam Campaign Medal. December 15, 1968 John became a member of the Corrigan-Kiernan Post No. 8160. In August 1970 John was Discharged from active duty, became an active member of Post 8160. Appointed; Post Adjutant, also held various offices. In November of 1973 John Became a Life Member of Post 8160. John is also a Gold Legacy Life Member

From August 1970 to date John has served on the Post Level as Adjutant, Trustee, Chaplain, Surgeon, Judge Advocate, Quartermaster, Jr. Vice Commander, Sr. Vice Commander & Post Commander.

On the Department level John has served as Vice Chairman of the Department Membership Team, Patriotic Instructor, Department Legislative Committee, Department Veterans Service Committee, Department Resolutions Committee, Vice Chairman of the Department Budget and Finance Committee 2 terms. John has served as Department Chief of Staff 2022 - 2023 and was re-appointed for 2023 – 2024.