 He applied for a change in rating to be a machine-gunner, but was refused due to the shortage of buglers.After completing field music school, he was transferred to the 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division.After completing his first overseas tour, he returned to the United States in February 1943 and was assigned to the First Battalion, 23rd Marines, 4th Marine Division at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina.