On September 12 of 1918, Walter’s father signed up for the World War I draft, yet was never drafted as the War ended a month after Love signed up to be drafted. Both Walter and his older brothers, Harold and Charles, made up for this as they both served their country during World War II. Harold joined the United States Army and was awarded a bronze star medal for his efforts on the European campaign. Harold was a messenger under the command of George Patton. Charles joined the Navy at 19 in 1942 and would eventually be one of three Arm Guard Gun Crew aboard his ship, SS Chatterton Hill. He ranked as a Seaman First Class for most of his time in the Navy. He retired from the service immediately after the war finished with the Allied Forces victory.
Blanton began his service after his brother, Charles, joined the Navy in 1942. He enlisted into the United States Marine Corps in the summer of 1942. Blanton was a part of the 1262nd rifle training platoon in San Diego, California after enlisting .Blanton spent his basic training at the Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton where he was trained for two years before he saw combat. During World War II, the Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton became the main training base for 1st Marines. He was later placed in the 1st Marines infantry after finishing training and deployed to the Palau islands to serve his country. He served as a Private First Class during his brief time in the military.