I hold a bachelor's degree from Saint Michael's College, Colchester, Vermont. I was commissioned a second lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force in 1975 and attended pilot training at Columbus AFB, Mississippi.

A career military officer, I transferred to the U.S. Army rolls in 1981 where I later gained extensive experience in plans, operations, and training. Among my many assignments, I served with distinction as a UH-60 Blackhawk battalion commander and was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal.