Gary Laughlin left his studies at the University of Texas to serve his country with great distinction in World War II. As a Marine Aviator, he flew F-4U Corsairs in the South Pacific with the VMF-111 Devil Dogs. After the war, he completed his studies and worked in the oil business in Texas. Quail was recalled to active duty in 1951 where he served with the VMF-214 Black Sheep in the Korean War.