Bud enlisted in the US Navy in July of 1974 and quickly advanced through the ranks until his discharge in 1979. After discharge, he went to the Illinois State Police Academy and became a Law Enforcement Officer (LEO). Although he enjoyed being a LEO, he knew he could do more for his country and his family if he reenlisted in the Navy and did so in October of 1979. He served with distinction and in 1982 was selected as the Sailor of the Year for all the US Pacific Fleet and promoted to Chief Petty Officer. Then in April of 1985 Bud was promoted to Commissioned Officer status and served until 1994 commanding several security forces at various Naval Stations. Bud retired from the US Navy after 20 years of service at the rank of Lieutenant.

Bud’s training in the Navy included Air Traffic Control schools for both shore and carrier operations. He also attended numerous firearms and security training schools and seminars achieving the status of Expert Pistol and Rifle Marksman and NRA Distinguished Marksman award as well as instructor designations in both pistol and rifle.

Bud has been teaching firearms classes as well as security and defense classes for over 40 years for both individuals and groups. He has taught firearms classes all over the US including in Texas, Nebraska and North and South Carolina and has been operating his own business teaching firearms and North Carolina Concealed Carry Handgun classes in central and eastern NC for the past 10+ years. He has now settled in the Crusoe Island community of Whiteville, NC where he has his own pistol and rifle ranges.