Graduated with high honors from the Naval Academy in 1907 and designated Naval Aviator No. 24 in 1915.
Served aboard the USS Carolina, the first Navy ship provided with aircraft, where he made numerous catapult take-offs as part of his regular flight operations.
Commanded the first transatlantic flight in the NC-4 in 1919. For this, he was awarded the Portuguese award of Commander of the Military Order of the Tower and Sword, the Distinguished Service Medal, and a special medal struck to commemorate the NC-4 flight.
Made an extensive goodwill tour of the United States in the NC-4.
Became Chief of the Air Technical Training in Chicago during World War II and then commanded the Navy air activities at Norfolk until the end of the war.