Boot camp at Parris Island; outposted to Norfolk Navy Yard on 19 November 1939. Duty in Portsmouth area through November 1940, at which time sailed for Marine Barracks, Bourne Field, St. Thomas. Duty in US Virgin Islands through at least November 1942.
Returned to United States late 1942-early 1943 via Quantico, VA. Joined Baker Company, First Separate Battalion (Reinforced) at New River, North Carolina, 18 February 1943.