At the age of 17, Joseph volunteered for military service and joined the Ist Battalion. He later was attached to the Corps de la Garde until 1 December 1949. Remaining in the military reserve, he worked as a canteen manager in the Army barracks.

On 15 June 1950, Joseph volunteered for an additional 3-year period. He was reattached to the Corps de la Garde before being transferred on personal request to the military police in October 1951. At that time he wished to prepare for his civil career. His plans to become a police officer were not fulfilled, so he instead joined the second contingent in February 1952.

After his return from Korea, he was attached to his former unit until his release from active duty in late April 1953. He went on to work as a taxi driver.