Patrick was inducted into the USMC June 1, 1976. His training and duties as a Tactical Vehicle Operator took him to the Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, California; Camp Pendelton, California; Iwakuni, Japan; and MCAS Yuma, Arizona. Patrick received the Good Conduct Medal and Rifle Expert Badge, achieved the rank of Corporal, and was discharged May 31, 1980.