Shortly after graduation he joined the U.S.N.R. and served on board the U.S.S. Eaton 510 Destroyer during World War II in the Pacific Theater and Guadalcanal. While deployed on the U.S.S. Eaton he served as a ship fitter and diver. During his tenure with this destroyer the ship earned 12 battle stars, including 2 silver stars and 2 bronze stars. For his heroic efforts during the war he was recommended for the Silver Star.

sister, Jane A. Whiteman of Sandy Springs, GA; a sister-in-law, Phyllis Whiteman of Rockledge, FL; a niece, Barbara Whiteman of South Bend; and a nephew, Byron G. Whiteman of Rockledge, FL. He was preceded in death by his brother, Robert C. Whiteman, of South Bend.