He served on active duty during World War II. Adams was promoted to the rank of lieutenant commander on 1 May 1943 and to commander on 1 March 1944.
He served on active duty during World War II. Adams was promoted to the rank of lieutenant commander on 1 May 1943 and commanded the USS "William Seiverling" in the Pacific. He was promoted to commander on 1 March 1944.