Commander Church was graduated from the U. S. Naval Academy in 1938. His duty assignments rotated between battleships and destroyers until 1944, when he was ordered to command of the U.S.S. Herndon (DD 638). From 1946-1949 he attended the U. S. Naval War College as a student and staff member. From 1949-1950 he commanded the U.S.S. Warrington (DD 843). In 1951 he reported for duty in the Office of the Chief of Naval Operations. He is currently attached to the Staff of Commander Amphibious Group Four.